Former Senator Benjamin Cardin Donates Political Papers to Johns Hopkins University

The recent donation of former U.S. Senator Benjamin Cardin's political papers to Johns Hopkins University's Sheridan Libraries and University Museums marks a significant contribution to the preservation of political history. This collection, encompassing nearly 60 years of Cardin's legislative career, includes 255 boxes of physical materials and 2.8 terabytes of digital content. It offers an unprecedented look into his tenure in the Maryland House of Delegates, the U.S. House of Representatives, and his three terms in the U.S. Senate, covering pivotal issues such as health care, retirement savings, environmental protection, and civil rights.

Cardin's donation is not just a treasure trove for historians but also a vital educational resource. It includes documents related to major political events, such as the impeachment trials of Judge Walter Nixon and President Donald Trump, the ethics investigation of Newt Gingrich, and the response to the COVID-19 pandemic. By making these materials available, Johns Hopkins University ensures that future generations can gain insights into the complexities of civic engagement and the legislative process.

During the donation luncheon, Cardin underscored the importance of accessibility to historical materials in fostering civic participation, particularly among the youth. This initiative by Johns Hopkins University to preserve and provide access to Cardin's papers underscores the institution's commitment to education and the preservation of political heritage, ensuring that the lessons from Cardin's career continue to inspire and inform.