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The enduring influence of salsa great Celia Cruz

06:09
Shoes worn by Celia Cruz. (Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution)
Shoes worn by Celia Cruz. (Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution)

To mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, we’re cataloging 25 objects that define the country’s history.

The Smithsonian Institution has a new exhibit documenting the history of salsa music in the U.S.

Here & Now's Indira Lakshmanan speaks with Ranald Woodaman from the National Museum of the American Latino about a centerpiece of the exhibit: a pair of red high heels worn by Celia Cruz.

A dress worn by Celia Cruz. (Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution)
A dress worn by Celia Cruz. (Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution)

This segment aired on May 6, 2026.

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