Group thinkers

The Smithsonian rejects a grant that celebrates great individuals | Gene Edward Veith

Not many museums would turn down a $38 million gift, especially in these days of tight budgets and low revenues. But the Smithsonian Institution, the Washington landmark that operates 16 museums, did. Underlying the wrangling between the donor and the curators is a deeper battle over what history is and whether individuals have the power to shape it.

Catherine B. Reynolds offered the Smithsonian $38 million for an exhibit to be titled "The Spirit of America." Designed particularly for children, the exhibit would include a "Hall of Achievers," featuring displays about 100 great Americans, from heroes of the past to modern role models such as Martin Luther King and Michael Jordan. The purpose of her gift, she said, was to demonstrate the power of individuals to shape history and to inspire children by teaching them the true stories of national heroes.