A person views displays at the Smithsonian museum a day after Independence Day celebrations (AP)US President Donald Trump has directed his administration to install disclaimer signs outside the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History, arguing that some of its exhibits present an inaccurate account of the country's past. The move is the latest step in his effort to reshape how American history is presented and comes after the White House released a report criticising the museum's portrayal of the nation's heritage.The order follows a report published by Trump's Domestic Policy Council on July 4, which claimed that the Smithsonian and the National Museum of American History fail to present history in a manner that is "inspiring, unifying, and worthy of our great republic."The 162-page report also alleged that the institution does not adequately acknowledge the "constructive role of Christian belief" in shaping the United States. It further claimed that "White, male, and Christian Americans are regularly denigrated as the alleged embodiment of oppressive power structures."Since the Smithsonian operates independently of the executive branch, Trump cannot directly remove its leadership or rewrite museum exhibits. Instead, his executive order focuses on the public space outside the museum, where the National Park Service manages the pavements.Under the order, visitors will see signs informing them that some exhibits contain information the White House considers inaccurate. The signs will also direct people to government-approved resources offering what the administration describes as a more accurate account of American history. The order further proposes a temporary exhibition aimed at correcting what Trump believes are historical inaccuracies.The Smithsonian did not immediately respond to the latest executive order.Earlier this week, National Museum of American History director Anthea M. Hartig rejected the White House's criticism while appearing before lawmakers."As we continue to fact check the report, we unwaveringly attest that it does not fairly or accurately characterise the full body of work at the museum," she said."There is always room for improvement. But I also know the beauty and the inspiration and the expertise that lies in our collections, our exhibits, and our programming."The Smithsonian is overseen by a Board of Regents, with museum directors reporting to Smithsonian Secretary Lonnie Bunch rather than the White House.Trump's latest action forms part of a wider campaign to reshape major cultural institutions that he believes promote ideological narratives. In March, he signed an executive order targeting federal funding for programmes that advanced what he described as "divisive narratives" and "improper ideology."His administration has also pursued changes beyond the Smithsonian. Earlier this year, Trump dismissed National Portrait Gallery director Kim Sajet, calling her "a highly partisan person." He has also sought changes to historical displays at other heritage sites, including exhibits related to slavery at George Washington's former residence in Philadelphia.Critics, including historians and advocacy groups, have argued that these efforts risk downplaying difficult chapters of American history in favour of a more celebratory national narrative.