Who Owns History?

Discover the thought-provoking insights in 'Who Owns History?', where acclaimed public intellectual Geoffrey Robertson challenges the status quo regarding the restitution of cultural heritage. The book masterfully engages with the debate surrounding looted artifacts and the rightful ownership of history, making it essential for anyone passionate about art, culture, and history. This compelling read delves into the pressing issue of returning treasures such as the 'Elgin' Marbles to Greece and the Gweagal Shield to Australia, igniting conversations about justice and heritage rights. Perfect for history buffs and cultural advocates, this paperback edition is meticulously crafted, featuring 304 pages of comprehensive exploration into the ethics of ownership and the human rights implications involved in cultural heritage restitution. With an engaging narrative, Robertson argues that cultural treasures should honor their origins, ensuring that the voices of subjugated peoples are heard and respected. Ideal for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike, 'Who Owns History?' is a must-have addition to your library. Dive into this essential examination of history and cultural identity today, and explore how we collectively shape our understanding of the past. Enjoy seamless reading in this BRAND NEW paperback edition published by Penguin Australia in 2020, complete with compelling arguments that will inspire critical thinking. Don’t miss out on your chance to reflect on the implications of cultural ownership - order now and join the conversation!

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781760893712
Format: B-format paperback
Year: 2020
Publisher: Penguin Australia Pty Ltd
Pages: 304


Description:
Hard on the heels of his best-selling autobiography Rather His Own Man, one of Australia's foremost public intellectuals turns his mind to one of the most important contemporary questions that divides the world of art and culture- the restitution of heritage treasures removed in earlier times from subjugated peoples who now want them back.

Taking his cue from Cicero, the great Roman barrister, Geoffrey Robertson argues that justice requires the return not only of the 'Elgin' Marbles to Greece, but of many looted antiquities on display in the museums of Britain, Europe and America. He argues that the Gweagal Shield - dropped when Cook shot at Aboriginals in Botany Bay in 1770 - should be returned to Australia from the British Museum. He wants the government to acquire the hull of HMS Endeavour recently located off Rhode Island. He has located Arthur Phillip's tombstone for Yemmerrawanne, the first Australian expatriate, in a South London churchyard, and he wants to bring it back.

Robertson's judgement is uncompromising- cultural heritage belongs to the people of whose history it is a part, unless its return would be attended by danger to the artwork itself. And since the movement for the restitution of cultural property is based on human rights, governments that want it back must show respect for the rights of the peoples on whose behalf they make the claim.

Who Owns History? not only delves into the crucial debate over the Marbles, but examines how the past can be experienced by everyone, as well as by the people of the country of origin.

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