The museum’s establishment occurred without significant obstacles, demonstrating a swift acceptance of African American history in national institutions.

The museum’s century-long journey, marked by setbacks, mirrors the broader struggle to institutionalize African American history, reflecting how social movements and persistent advocacy have shaped public memory.

The museum was a straightforward government initiative, highlighting the ease with which African American history was integrated into national institutions.

The museum’s conception began only in the twenty-first century, indicating that African American history was not considered part of the national narrative before this period.