Trump orders signs outside Smithsonian museum amid row over its depiction of American history

President Donald Trump on Friday ordered his administration to install signs outside the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History directing visitors to what the White House describes as "accurate" information about the nation's past.The executive order instructs the National Park Service, which maintains the sidewalks outside the museum, to place signs informing visitors about a White House report released July 4 that criticized the Smithsonian's portrayal of American history. Trump also directed the creation of a temporary exhibit intended to correct what his administration considers inaccurate historical information.

TRUMP WHITE HOUSE CALLS OUT SMITHSONIAN FOR PUSHING ‘ONE-SIDED, DIVISIVE POLITICAL NARRATIVES’The move follows a report from Trump's Domestic Policy Council that accused the Smithsonian and the National Museum of American History of failing to present history "in a way that is inspiring, unifying, and worthy of our great republic."Because the Smithsonian operates independently of the executive branch, Trump cannot directly remove museum leadership or unilaterally change exhibits. Instead, the order targets federal property outside the museum that falls under National Park Service jurisdiction.

National Museum of American History Director Anthea M. Hartig defended the museum during congressional testimony this week."As we continue to fact check the report, we unwaveringly attest that it does not fairly or accurately characterize the full body of work at the museum," Hartig told lawmakers.

"There is always room for improvement. But I also know the beauty and the inspiration and the expertise that lies in our collections, our exhibits, and our programming."MED SCHOOL DEANS COME UP EMPTY IN TENSE HEARING WHEN ASKED POINT BLANK IF MEN CAN HAVE BABIES: 'RIDICULOUS'Friday's order builds on Trump's broader effort to reshape the Smithsonian's exhibits.

In March, Trump signed an executive order directing the Smithsonian's Board of Regents to eliminate wha