The Price of Freedom: Americans at War surveys the history of America’s military from the French and Indian Wars to the present conflict in Iraq, exploring ways in which wars have been defining episodes in American history. The exhibition extends far beyond a survey of battles to present the link between military conflict and American political leadership, social values, technological innovation, and personal sacrifice. The heart of the story is the impact of war on citizen soldiers, their families, and communities.

The exhibition features:

• George Washington’s sword and scabbard
• George Armstrong Custer’s buckskin coat
• the chairs Civil War generals Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant used during the surrender ceremony at Appomattox Court House, Virginia
• a Willys Jeep, used during World War II
• a restored UH-1H Huey Helicopter, deployed in Vietnam in 1966
• Gen. Colin Powell’s uniform from Operation Desert Storm.

Online Exhibition
The Price of Freedom examines the reality of war and its role in American history from the 1750s to the present. A powerful search tool provides access to battle flags, firearms, swords, uniforms, medals, soldiers’ equipment, and more. Visit Web site