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The Smithsonian Institution is a unique public-private partnership and a "trust instrumentality" of the United States, established by Congress in 1846. It is not a government agency, but it is owned by the federal government and governed by a 17-member Board of Regents, which includes the Chief Justice, the Vice President, and members of Congress
Establishment: Created by an Act of Congress in 1846 following a bequest from British scientist James Smithson.
Board of Regents: This board governs the institution and is comprised of the Chief Justice of the U.S. (Chancellor), the Vice President, three Senators, three House members, and nine private citizens.
Leadership: The Board appoints a Secretary to manage the day-to-day operations of its 21 museums, libraries, and the National Zoo.
Funding: While considered independent, it receives roughly two-thirds of its 1.25 billion budget from federal appropriations, with the remainder from private contributions, grants, and retail/licensing revenue.
Legal Status: Courts have deemed it not an agency or authority of the government, yet it shares the immunity of the U.S. from state and local regulations.