What happens when a people decide to govern themselves? America’s national treasures come to life in this compelling exhibition that examines the bold experiment to create a government “of the people, by the people, and for the people.”
American Democracy: A Great Leap of Faith explores the history of citizen participation, debate, and compromise from the nation’s formation to today. Through objects such as Thomas Jefferson’s portable desk, used to draft the Declaration of Independence; the inkstand Lincoln used to draft the Emancipation Proclamation; and the table on which Elizabeth Cady Stanton wrote the Declaration of Sentiments, the exhibition focuses on the changing political ideals and principles of the nation, citizenship in a pluralistic society, and political participation and engagement.
Companion Book
Explore the exhibition at home with a companion volume to the museum exhibition.
Exhibition Website
Can't visit the museum to see American Democracy? Explore the historic objects and dive into the history on the companion website.
Object Gallery
The Declaration of Independence Desk
Emancipation Proclamation Inkstand
The Declaration of Sentiments Table
Woman Suffrage Wagon, 1870s–1920
"Franklin" common press
Pamphlet, "Common Sense", 1776
Liberty Banner, 1790s
Constitutional Convention Box
15th Amendment Pen
19th Amendment Pen
Log Cabin Parade Prop, 1840
Cartoon, "Stranger Things Have Happened", 1879
Magnifying Glass, 2000
Kennedy Debate Chair, 1960
Poster, SCLC Poor People's Campaign, 1968
Susan B. Anthony’s Shawl
Statue of Liberty Hanukkah Menorah
