Loot: the Heritage of Plunder Book

Plunder - the appropriation by richer and stronger nations of cultural treasures belonging to poorer peoples - has become the modern occasion of international scandal. Conquering nations have looted the vanquished since the beginning of history, but in recent years many have questioned the legality and morality of one nation retaining the historical treasures of another. Some nations have demanded the return of valuable artifacts, while still others have shown reluctance to part with priceless art objects. Beginning with the story of the Elgin marbles Loot!: The Heritage of Plunder examines the looting of major ancient civilizations and of many Third World nations. First it tells the story of the pillage of important historical sites such as Greece and Egypt by conquerors, archeologists, and even tourists. Next it discusses the fate of such major symbols of nationhood as the Stone of Scone and the Crown of St. Stephen. Loot reviews the campaigns of Napoleon and Hitler, the first and last of the great modern looters. Napoleon was the first to plunder not for personal trophies or triumph but for the supposed greater glory of the state. Hitler was the last to attempt such a plan. Their legacy lingers in the debate over the right of one country to hold the treasures of another against the will of nations to preserve and possess their cultural heritage and identity. Loot concludes with a revealing discussion of the very contemporary aspect of the controversy - the attempts of Third World nations to regain possession of their art and cultural symbols. More than one hundred black-and-white and color illustrations give the reader a fascinating glimpse of the richness and diversity of these treasures. Archeologists, historians, and art lovers - in fact, anyone interested in the past and concerned about the preservation of culture will find this a controversial and thought-provoking book.Read More