Who Owns History? - Examining the Return of Ancient Artifacts

Explore the complex issue of antiquities repatriation in this thought-provoking TEDx talk by Professor Herman Salton. Delve into the sensitive debate surrounding the ownership and return of ancient artifacts to their supposed places of origin. Examine the claims made by countries like Greece, Turkey, Italy, and China, who assert state ownership over historical treasures and demand their return from museums worldwide. Consider the challenges in determining rightful ownership, given the vast geographical span of ancient civilizations and the significant differences between modern nation-states and the communities that originally created these objects. Analyze the fundamental questions: Who truly owns antiquity? To whom should these priceless artifacts be returned? Gain insights from Salton's expertise in international relations, international organizations, and United Nations history as he unpacks this multifaceted global issue.