Collecting the world

Hans Sloane and the Origins of the British Museum
Book • 2017
James Delbourgo's 'Collecting the World' delves into the life and work of Sir Hans Sloane, a pivotal figure in the establishment of the British Museum.

The book meticulously traces Sloane's extensive collecting practices, highlighting his acquisition of specimens from Jamaica and beyond.

Delbourgo explores the ethical complexities of Sloane's methods, acknowledging the reliance on enslaved labor.

The narrative also examines the broader context of 18th-century collecting and its impact on scientific understanding.

Ultimately, the book offers a nuanced portrait of Sloane's legacy, acknowledging both his contributions and the problematic aspects of his work.

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Tracy B. Wilson
while discussing Sir Hans Sloane's relations with the aristocratic Hamiltons.
Sir Hans Sloane and the British Museum

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