White House photo
On this date in 2003, H.R. 3491 was signed into law, launching the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Signed by President George W. Bush in the Oval Office, the act authorizes the creation of a Smithsonian Institution museum dedicated to the legacy of African Americans.
The bill also states that a site should be selected within 12 months. The museum could be opened by 2013.
