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Bunch’s resignation will mark a huge leadership transition at a vulnerable and politically fraught time for the institution.

During Trump’s second term in office, the president has repeatedly attacked how the Smithsonian presents US history, starting when he signed an executive order in March last year targeting “divisive narratives” and “improper ideology” at the institution. This progressed into frequent attacks, sweeping exhibition reviews and federal funding threats.

Bunch has had to tread a fine line between defending the Smithsonian’s independence and commitment to historical accuracy and complexity, and complying with some of the administration’s demands.

Trump has accused the organization of being too “woke” and focusing too much on unsavoury aspects of US history. A recent report prepared by the White House’s domestic policy council called “Saving America’s Story” accused the museum’s leadership of “ideological capture”.