Smithsonian Associates Online Programs

The reign of Queen Elizabeth II was exceptional for many reasons, including her remarkable longevity, her enduring marriage to Prince Philip, and her success in concealing her opinions on virtually any contentious subject. For many people, she embodied dutifulness, service, and continuity in a rapidly changing world. Historian Sir David Cannadine puts the life of Elizabeth II in perspective, set against a broad domestic and international context.

Go on a voyage through the Southern Ocean to follow the lives of Antarctica’s penguins through an unforgettable season on the ice. Amanda Hunter, a marine biologist and polar expedition guide, explores their migrations, fierce challenges, and moments of new life as they navigate one of the harshest climates on Earth. Discover what makes these birds so remarkably resilient and why their story matters now more than ever.

A cascade of violence between England and France, the Hundred Years War (1337–1453) included some of the most significant battles in history. Military historian Michael Livingston examines how medieval Europe was consumed by two full centuries of war from 1292 to 1492 far beyond the borders of its main combatants and how this prolonged violence helped shape modern Europe’s political systems, military innovations, and national identities.

The pyramids at Giza, catacombs of ancient Rome, and cenotaphs around the world all commemorate the dead. Historian Roger Luckhurst delves into the often-unexpected visual culture surrounding these and other burial sites. Along the way, he explores the varied roles graveyards have played in literature, art, film, and television.

Drawing on one of the greatest Post-Impressionist and early modern art collections in the world, Barnes Foundation educator Penny Hansen guides a five-part series of online tours that examine the paintings of artists who helped shape a revolutionary period in the history of art. High-definition Deep Zoom technology provides close-up views of their canvases. This session highlights Paul Cézanne.

Spend a fascinating Friday evening expanding your knowledge of the world of wine as you sip along with sommelier Erik Segelbaum in a series of delectable adventures. He explores the past, present, and future of Napa Valley. Each immersive program includes a curated personal tasting kit to enhance the experience.

Using direct printing and water-based printing inks, create realistic-looking schools of fish or a single artistic print simply by inking a whole fish and pressing it to paper.