About the National Archives

Web Page
About the National Archives Web Page … The National Archives and Records Administration is an independent federal agency that preserves and shares with the public records that trace the story of our nation, government, and the American people. From the Declaration of Independence to accounts of ordinary Americans, the holdings of the National Archives directly touch the lives of millions of people. The National Archives carries out its mission through a nationwide network of archives, records centers, and …

Rightfully Hers: American Women and the Vote

Online Exhibit
Rightfully Hers American Women and the Vote Online Exhibit … Online Exhibits About the Exhibit Most Americans consider the ability to vote fundamental to the enjoyment of full citizenship. American women, however, were long denied that right. In 1920, American democracy dramatically expanded when the newly ratified 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution prohibited the states from denying the vote on the basis of sex.  This landmark voting rights victory was made possible by decades of suffragists’ …

To the Polls: 60 Years of the Voting Rights Act

Past Exhibit
To the Polls 60 Years of the Voting Rights Act Ongoing Exhibit … In the 1960s, voting rights were at the forefront of many Americans’ minds. Nearly 100 years had passed since the 15th Amendment outlawed voting restrictions “on account of race, color, or previous condition of servitude.” But threats of violence, literacy tests, and extra fees still prevented many Black voters from exercising their constitutional right at the polls. On March 7, 1965, a peaceful march led by activists, including future …

The Revolution's Impact on American Society

Virtual Exhibit
The Revolutions Impact on American Society Virtual Exhibit … The Revolutionary War touched every aspect of American society and brought a broad spectrum of men and women to the frontlines. Officers and enlisted soldiers distinguished themselves in battle, and allied forces helped to secure an American …

Opening the Vault: Declarations of Independence

Virtual Exhibit
Opening the Vault Declarations of Independence Virtual Exhibit … From Richard Henry Lee’s resolution for independence to the Bicentennial reproductions, these documents highlight the Declaration’s enduring symbol of freedom, liberty, and the pursuit of a more perfect …

Power & Light: Russell Lee's Coal Survey

Past Exhibit
Power & Light Russell Lees Coal Survey Past Exhibit … "The Sergent family on their front porch. P V & K Coal Company, Clover Gap Mine, Lejunior, Harlan County, Kentucky."  View in National Archives Catalog Power & Light: Russell Lee's Coal Survey is an exhibition of photographs of coal communities by American documentary photographer Russell Lee. These images tell the story of laborers who helped build the nation, of a moment when the government took stock of their health and safety, and of a photographer …