The Culture Wars Are Nothing New

When Smithson donated a half million dollars to establish what has become the Smithsonian Institution, it created a major controversy in the Congress. Some opposed accepting the donation as unconstitutional, contrary to states rights. Fortunately John Quincy Adams was in the House of Representatives and fought a successful campaign not only to have the gift accepted but to keep it free from graft and patronage and to dedicate it to a national museum.

The White House reports on Adams' presidency:

Well aware that he would face hostility in Congress, Adams nevertheless proclaimed in his first Annual Message a spectacular national program. He proposed that the Federal Government bring the sections together with a network of highways and canals, and that it develop and conserve the public domain, using funds from the sale of public lands. In 1828, he broke ground for the 185-mile C & 0 Canal.

Adams also urged the United States to take a lead in the development of the arts and sciences through the establishment of a national university, the financing of scientific expeditions, and the erection of an observatory. His critics declared such measures transcended constitutional limitations.