The Museum of American History opened in 1964 as the sixth Smithsonian building on the Mall. This museum focuses on the history of transportation, agriculture, communication, medicine, science and technology in the United States. It includes such exhibits as “After the Revolution: Everyday life in America,” “From Parlor to Politics: Women and Reform,” and “Armed Forces History.”

What do the Draisine, Stumpjumper, and Velocipede have in common? They’re all bicycles on display in the “Road Vehicles” exhibit.

When Francis Scott Key saw the American Flag flying over Fort McHenry during the War of 1812, it inspired him to write “The Star Spangled Banner.” The song became popular during the Civil War, and in 1931, by act of Congress, it was officially designated the national anthem of the United States. The flag that inspired the song was donated to the Smithsonian in 1912.