Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom

Permanent event at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, United States

17 August 2017

Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom. Courtesy of National Museum of African American History and Culture

This exhibition explores the years following the end of Reconstruction to show how the nation struggled to define the status of African Americans. This period represents a critical era for the United States and for African Americans. It puts to the test whether African Americans would have full citizenship rights after more than 250 years of enslavement.

Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom: The Era of Segregation 1876-1968 captures the major aspects of that struggle and illustrates how African Americans not only survived the challenges set before them but crafted an important role for themselves in the nation.

It also looks at how the nation was changed as a consequence of these struggles and emerged from them more in sync with its pronouncements about freedom, equality, and democracy.

National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture.

Museum profile

Location

Washington, United States

Founded in

2003

Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom. Courtesy of National Museum of African American History and Culture
Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom. Courtesy of National Museum of African American History and Culture
Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom. Courtesy of National Museum of African American History and Culture

Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom. Courtesy of National Museum of African American History and Culture
Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom. Courtesy of National Museum of African American History and Culture
Defending Freedom, Defining Freedom. Courtesy of National Museum of African American History and Culture