Education Secretary's AI-Generated Historical Images Draw Criticism from Historians
Education Secretary Linda McMahon has faced pushback from historians for using artificial intelligence-generated images in social media posts about American women leaders, despite having access to authentic historical photographs.
McMahon posted an AI-generated image of journalist and civil rights leader Ida B. Wells on Truth Social, crediting Google's Gemini model. The post itself praised Wells' contributions, but historians objected to the use of fabricated imagery rather than existing photographs.
Paula Giddings, who wrote a biography of Wells, told The Washington Post that the choice undermines Wells' core legacy. "The decision to use an AI-generated image undermines the very values she stood for: truth-telling and her lifelong campaign against false representations," Giddings said.
McMahon has used AI-generated images in all her posts about prominent women, including Susan B. Anthony, Sojourner Truth, and Dolley Madison. Authenticated photographs exist for each of these figures.
Historical Inaccuracies in AI Images
The AI-generated Wells image contains factual errors that concern educators. It depicts her writing with a quill pen by candlelight, but Wells was active in the late 19th century when metal pens and gas lights were standard.
Sarah Weicksel, executive director of the American Historical Association, said the errors extend beyond single images. "The AI images are pulling from material that is historically inaccurate," Weicksel told The Washington Post. "We have excellent sources for all of these women, so there is no point to using something that is AI-generated."
Weicksel added that AI-generated infographics and illustrations have created inconsistent educational resources. Schools and educators rely on accurate historical representations to teach students about these figures.
Broader Pattern in Administration
McMahon is not alone in the Trump administration's use of AI imagery. Last week, Texas Governor Greg Abbott shared an AI-generated image of a U.S. pilot being rescued in Iran.
The administration's openness to AI tools has been documented, with the President himself posting AI-generated images this week.
For educators, the issue extends beyond social media posts. When government officials use inaccurate AI imagery to represent historical figures, it can influence educational materials and how students encounter these important leaders. Learn more about AI for Education and the challenges of implementing AI tools responsibly in learning environments, or explore concerns around Generative Art accuracy and historical representation.
Your membership also unlocks:
