As a historic structure and a modern seat of government, the Michigan Capitol occupies a unique position between Michigan’s past and its future. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, we will be offering displays, programs, and online content that consider the design of the Capitol as both a symbol of state authority and a site for civic empowerment. In Designing Democracy, we will explore the architecture of government buildings and discover how the people of Michigan have made history at their Capitol and shaped their government within its walls.