Trump’s Backlash to Black History
The Atlantic
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
President Trump’s ongoing efforts to downplay or erase mentions of slavery and other aspects of Black history have sparked significant backlash, with a federal judge recently rebuking his administration for removing panels discussing “the dirty business of slavery” from the President’s House in Philadelphia. The judge emphasized the importance of historical accuracy, stating that an agency cannot arbitrarily decide what is true based on its own whims or leadership. This ruling highlights the broader cultural and political battle over how history, particularly Black history, is presented and commemorated.
The Trump administration has been actively working to whitewash uncomfortable truths about slavery and systemic racism. For instance, it has restored Confederate names to military bases and removed slavery-related content from federally funded institutions. These actions have drawn criticism from historians, educators, and advocates who argue that such efforts distort the nation’s past and undermine efforts to confront its painful history.
Black History Month traditionally follows a predictable formula of celebrating notable figures like Harriet Tubman and Rosa Parks, but this year calls for a more radical approach. As highlighted in an episode of *Radio Atlantic*, the whitewashing of history is not just about erasing facts but also about shaping public perception to align with a particular narrative—one that downplays or ignores the darker aspects of American history.
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Originally published on The Atlantic on 2/19/2026