The Reliquary of America: A Nation’s Identity in Objects

The Smithsonian Institution’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence is a sprawling endeavor that seeks to encapsulate the essence of America through a curated selection of artifacts. “30 Objects” – a show featuring thirty carefully chosen relics from the Smithsonian’s vast collection – has been making waves with its inclusive approach and thoughtful curation.

At first glance, distilling America’s identity into 30 objects may seem reductionist. Other nations have long and storied histories that predate our own by millennia. Yet, in a relatively brief span of time – roughly three lifetimes – we have managed to reshape the world, spreading our ideals of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness far and wide.

This remarkable achievement is not solely a product of the Declaration’s eloquent language or the vision of its signers. Rather, it represents a fundamental shift in human values that has had far-reaching consequences for modern society. The words “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” have inspired countless declarations around the world since 1776.

The curators behind “30 Objects” chose to center the exhibition on Thomas Jefferson’s portable wooden box desk – the very instrument where he drafted the Declaration. This choice serves as a powerful reminder of the role that individuals play in shaping our collective identity. By choosing this object, they deliberately highlighted the ongoing process of self-definition.

America has always been a work in progress. We have debated, voted, marched, and died for our ideals – often imperfectly, but with a commitment to the principles enshrined in our founding documents. The Smithsonian’s decision to showcase 30 objects that reflect this journey is a deliberate attempt to resist nostalgia or triumphalism.

Each object serves as a prism through which we can understand our shared history – and perhaps, just as importantly, see ourselves within it. This exhibition does not aim to highlight specific communities or identities but rather recognizes that America’s story is one of constant evolution. The inclusion of campaign buttons, for example, serves as a poignant reminder that even our most mundane artifacts hold significance in the grand narrative of American history.

The decision to include or exclude an object was a deliberate attempt to balance inclusivity with restraint – recognizing that there can never be enough objects to tell every story. In this context, “30 Objects” becomes more than just an exhibition – it is a reliquary for America’s identity, a testament to our capacity to grow, adapt, and transform over time.

As we gather in the nation’s capital to commemorate this momentous occasion, let us remember that our country’s story is far from finished. It is a story of ongoing struggle, imperfect triumphs, and an unwavering commitment to the ideals that have made America great – or, at least, aspirational.