For the nation’s 250th anniversary, an exhibit at the Smithsonian invites us to see the United States through the lens of nature, tracing maps shaped by rivers, forests, ancient seas, and animal migrations, rather than human-imposed state borders.
- Natural features often shape recognizable state boundaries.
- Pine cones reveal ecological stories spanning vast regions.
- Animal migrations cross all borders, illustrating nature’s reach.
What happened
To celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History opened an exhibition titled “From These Lands: Sharing Our Natural and Cultural Heritage.” This exhibit invites people to envision the country without the familiar human-drawn state boundaries and instead view it through the natural contours that define the land.
The curators crafted maps highlighting features like mountain ranges, watersheds, and animal migration routes that disregard state lines, offering a perspective rooted in nature’s long-standing influence on the landscape. Items from the museum’s collections, including pine cones and fossils, provide tangible examples of how the environment connects different regions.
Why it feels good
Seeing the United States beyond artificial borders creates a sense of connection and continuity. For example, pine cones from various species reveal adaptations shaped by climate, terrain, and ecosystems, illustrating the diversity of biomes stretching across the country. This perspective deepens appreciation for the natural world’s complexity and resilience.
Moreover, learning about ancient seaways and migration patterns reminds us that the land we inhabit is dynamic and intricately linked to past environments and living creatures. Such insights foster a broader understanding of our shared natural heritage, inspiring respect and care for the environment beyond local or political divides.
What to enjoy or watch next
Visitors to the Smithsonian’s exhibition can explore fascinating displays about pine tree species native to the U.S., including how their cones respond to fire and climate to aid survival and regeneration. The exhibit also highlights fossils from the Western Interior Seaway that once covered much of the central U.S., revealing a prehistoric world very different from today’s landscapes.
To further embrace this new way of looking at the country, consider following migratory animals such as birds and whales whose routes span continents and oceans, cutting across all borders. Celebrating nature’s maps offers an inspiring reminder that the environment’s true boundaries go far beyond those drawn on political maps.