Uploaded May 2020 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago

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On September 18, 2019, the National Museum of American History awarded its signature honor—the Great Americans Medal—to Paul Simon for his significant contributions as a recording artist, songwriter, and philanthropist. The Great Americans Medal is awarded for lifetime contributions embodying American ideas and ideals, and honors individuals who have not only made a lasting impact in their fields, but whose philanthropic and humanitarian endeavors set them apart. Watch Paul Simon’s full conversation with Smithsonian Regent David M. Rubenstein and the Great Americans Medal presentation youtube.com/watch?v=zRrXK2CtuaY&feature=youtu.be
View more Great Americans videos at https://s.si.edu/GreatAmericans. For more on the Great Americans Medal and its recipients, visit https://greatamericans.si.edu./