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History Extra podcast
Why we shouldn't see museum artefacts as 'stolen'
Mar 30, 2025
Justin M Jacobs, a historian and author of "Plunder?: How Museums Got Their Treasures," challenges the narrative around museum artifacts often labeled as 'stolen.' He argues that the repatriation debate overlooks the complexities of historical contexts and cultural interactions. Jacobs discusses the nuanced roles of antiquities dealers and highlights the cooperative relationships between source countries and Western archaeologists. He emphasizes understanding diverse cultural perceptions and the importance of recognizing local voices in the discussion of artifact ownership.
47:34
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Quick takeaways
- Many museum artifacts were acquired through varied methods, highlighting the complexities rather than solely the illegitimacy of their origins.
- Recognizing the voices and agency of individuals in source countries reshapes the discourse around cultural exchange and artifact ownership.
Deep dives
Revising Historical Narratives
Discussions around museum artifacts often assume they were acquired through illegitimate means rooted in Western imperialism. The view that museums are essentially crime scenes overlooks the historical context and perspectives of source countries. Historical evidence suggests that many artifacts were viewed differently by the people from whom they were taken, often seen as commodities that could be exchanged for greater value. By emphasizing the need for a nuanced understanding, it is possible to challenge simplistic narratives that paint all collectors as morally dubious.
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