CIVILIZATION

Approach

Present History seeks to show how moments in history have pushed or altered the trajectory of the Smithsonian, through the opening of new museums, additions to the collection, research, and initiatives, and in turn, how these moments in history impacted the way we live in America. This year marks the 175-year anniversary of the Smithsonian, with origins before the Civil War. To date, the Smithsonian has 19 museums, 9 research centers, 154 million artifacts, and affiliates around the world.

The insert uses two timelines to tell the Smithsonian’s story. The first spotlights People, Places, Objects, and Events that were emblematic of the cultural, societal, economic, and political shifts of the time, illustrated through images or artifacts from the Smithsonian’s collections. The second timeline, running across the bottom of each page, celebrates the significant milestones of the Smithsonian over its 175 year history. Interspersed throughout the insert are games and activities that celebrate unexpected stories, roles, or artifacts from the Smithsonian. The centerfold has a 2-player game inspired by Trivial Pursuit, where players complete challenges as they make their way to different Smithsonian destinations. The insert’s back cover is a play on Chutes & Ladders, where players travel to significant inventions from the 19th century, showing how seemingly failed inventions led to future advancements.

Research

Milestones and artifacts from nineteen Smithsonian museums, Popular games from 1846 til today

Reach

Present History was distributed to nearly 2 million USA Today subscribers nationwide.

USA Today estimates that each newspaper is read by 2.5 people (including families, roommates, public places).