James Smithson Statue and Smithsonian Institute – Washington DC
James Smithson Statue and Smithsonian Institute – Washington DC
James Smithson (1765–1829) was an English scientist and philanthropist whose remarkable legacy led to the creation of the Smithsonian Institution, often called “the nation’s attic.” Born in France to an aristocratic family, Smithson was a chemist and mineralogist known for his scientific contributions, including the discovery of zinc carbonate (smithsonite). Despite never visiting the United States, he left his fortune to the country to establish an institution dedicated to the “increase and diffusion of knowledge.” His bequest, amounting to over $500,000 in gold at the time, was used to found the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., in 1846. Today, the Smithsonian has grown into the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, encompassing 21 museums, the National Zoo, and numerous research facilities, preserving and sharing knowledge across countless disciplines.