Science and Technology

"Research is formalized curiosity. It is poking and prying with a purpose" -Zora Neale Hurston

Science organizes and conceptualizes knowledge about the world and the universe beyond.Technology is the application of human ingenuity to modification of the environment in both modern and traditional cultures.

Americans have been researching and applying science since the earliest times. American Indians, Alaska Natives and Native Hawaiians hold detailed Traditional Ecological Knowledge (also known as TEK).Such knowledge of plants, animals and the natural world is the foundation for a holistic world view and technologies of fishing, gathering, hunting, agriculture, building, manufacturing and plant and animal management. Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument provides one example of such TEK over more than 13,000 years.

Benjamin Franklin was one of the many "Founding Fathers" of the United States with a deep interest in science and technology. Thomas Jefferson was not only President of the United States, but was also President of the American Philosophical Society.He ensured that the Lewis and Clark Expedition and "Corps of Discovery" would record extensive geographic knowledge new to the European explorers.

Edison National Historic Site, Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park and Manhattan Project National Historical Park all reflect technological advancement in historic times.

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  Science and Technology

  Places

  Explore the parks and other places with connections to science and technology.

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  Science and Technology

  People

  Learn about the people who have played a role in science and technology.

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  Science and Technology

  Education Resources

  Here you will find education resources that explore the science and technology history of the United States.

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  Science and Technology

  Theme Study

  Studies that look at the history of American science and technology.

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  Science and Technology

  Additional Resources

  Additional resources to explore the history of science and technology in the United States.