Americans Favor Open Discussion of Historical Successes and Failures

As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a recent Pew Research Center poll reveals that a significant majority of Americans believe it is essential to discuss both the nation's successes and failures. Specifically, 66% of respondents indicated that it is extremely or very important to address the country’s historical strengths, while the same percentage applies to acknowledging its flaws. This sentiment is shared across party lines, although a partisan divide exists; 75% of Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents prioritize discussions of failures, compared to 60% of Republicans and Republican-leaning independents.

Talk About U.S. Failures, Too, Most Americans Say

Conducted from November 17 to 30, 2025, the survey involved 10,357 U.S. adults and reflects a growing concern regarding the portrayal of American history, particularly in light of actions taken by the Trump administration. President Donald Trump has advocated for a narrative that emphasizes American exceptionalism, criticizing institutions like the Smithsonian for focusing on negative aspects of history, such as slavery and racism. In March 2025, he issued an executive order aimed at reviewing federally funded museums and national parks to ensure they align with this directive.

Talk About U.S. Failures, Too, Most Americans Say

Critics of the administration's approach argue that a comprehensive understanding of U.S. history requires an honest examination of its darker chapters. Sarah Weicksel, executive director of the American Historical Association, emphasized the necessity of discussing race and racism as integral to the historical narrative. Joy Connolly, president of the American Council of Learned Societies, described attempts to sanitize history as an "assault on historical truth," asserting that the true American story must encompass a wide range of perspectives and experiences.

Talk About U.S. Failures, Too, Most Americans Say

The Pew Research survey also highlights demographic variations in attitudes toward discussing historical narratives. Adults aged 50 and older are slightly more inclined (69%) than those under 50 (63%) to support discussions of successes. Additionally, individuals with a college degree are more likely to view both successes and failures as important topics for public discourse.

Majorities of Americans say it’s important to talk about the country’s historical successes and failures

The White House has maintained that its goal is to ensure that public monuments and memorials do not contain content that disparages Americans, focusing instead on celebrating achievements. This stance has sparked ongoing debates about the role of historical accuracy in public education and cultural institutions.

Talk About U.S. Failures, Too, Most Americans Say

While the Pew Research Center's findings indicate a strong desire among Americans to engage with both positive and negative aspects of history, the Trump administration's actions suggest a contrasting approach. This discrepancy raises questions about the future of historical education in the U.S. and the potential implications for cultural institutions.

Majorities of Americans say it’s important to talk about the country’s historical successes and failures

• “In honoring the historical record, we have to talk about race, and we have to talk about racism,” — Sarah Weicksel, Executive Director, American Historical Association

Talk About U.S. Failures, Too, Most Americans Say

• “History is not a Hallmark card.” — Joy Connolly, President, American Council of Learned Societies

Talk About U.S. Failures, Too, Most Americans Say

• “The way to tell the true American story is to provide as many broad and diverse and expertly researched stories as we can.” — Joy Connolly, President, American Council of Learned Societies

Talk About U.S. Failures, Too, Most Americans Say

As the nation prepares for its semiquincentennial, the dialogue surrounding its historical narrative remains a pivotal issue, reflecting broader societal values and the importance of inclusive historical discourse.

Talk About U.S. Failures, Too, Most Americans Say