The Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery will open the exhibition, “Legacy: Spain and the United States in the Age of Independence, 1763-1848,” on September 27, 2007. A relationship often overlooked, this exhibition examines the lasting contributions made by Spain to the U.S. during the Revolutionary War era and into the early, formative years of the American republic. Through portraits of important individuals who participated in and shaped the discourse and decision-making process between these two countries, we hope to leave visitors with a richer understanding of the Hispanic legacy in America’s history. The exhibition will close February 10, 2008.

The symposium, “The Spanish Contribution to the Independence of the United States: Between Reform and Revolution (1763-1848)” will take place in conjunction with the exhibition. From September 27 – 29, 2007, distinguished scholars, historians, and academics from Spain, Mexico, England, and the United States will present their ideas about and discuss the relationship between Spain and America in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and consider the contemporary implications of those historical interactions. The symposium will take place at the Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture in Washington, D.C.

The exhibition is organized by the National Portrait Gallery, Sociedad Estatal para la Acción Cultural Exterior (SEACEX), Smithsonian Latino Center, and the Fundacion-Consejo España-Estados Unidos.
The exhibition and symposium have been made possible by a generous grant from The Walt Disney Company. Additional support has been provided by BBVA, Grupo Barceló, Iberdrola, and Iberia.

Daily Schedule:   English | Español