National Archives Hosts NATO 75th Anniversary Event
By Pete Lewis | National Archives News
WASHINGTON, May 30, 2024 – In celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, on May 28, the National Archives in Washington, DC, opened its doors to host a panel discussion with the Department of State on NATO’s significance in the current day and age.
The North Atlantic Treaty, showing Article 5. Signed on April 4, 1949, the treaty formed the legal basis for NATO.
Deputy Archivist of the United States William J. Bosanko gave opening remarks and spoke about the excitement surrounding the NATO anniversary and the importance of maintaining records such as the NATO Treaty.
“Because of the anniversary, the treaty has been very popular,” Bosanko said. “It is a nice reminder of the importance of records.”
The panel discussion focused on why young people should be interested in NATO. Ambassador Yuri Kim, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, and Lucy Ferguson, Minister Counsellor for Foreign Policy, Security and Development, UK Embassy, provided their perspectives. Journalist Nayyera Haqserved as moderator. Attendees included students from 15 middle schools, high schools, and colleges.
Following the discussion portion of the event, a pre-recorded video message from First Lady of the United States Dr. Jill Biden was played for the audience. “Young people are one of the reasons NATO is stronger than ever. You are the leaders of tomorrow and today, the keepers of this alliance, the dreamers of a better world,” Biden said in her message. “The future is not a far-off finish line. We are building it every day. Hold on to your dreams. Raise up your communities. Bring others along, and together, we can shape better tomorrows for us all.”
The North Atlantic Treaty is on display for all visitors to see at the National Archives Building in Washington, DC, until July 31.
The National Archives is the nation's entrusted record keeper, ensuring important legal and historical documentation of the federal government is preserved for the life of the republic. These valuable records are available publicly, whether you want to search for clues about your family’s history, need to prove a veteran’s military service, or are researching a historical topic like NATO that interests you.
Visit the National Archives Catalog online to view archival holdings related to NATO, or to learn more about the billions of records in our holdings.
View the National Archives Calendar of Events for information on future events.