Cambridge Uncovers 350,000 African Artifacts and Specimens in Storage
The University of Cambridge has discovered more than 350,000 African artifacts, manuscripts and specimens in its archives, many related to British colonialism. The discovery, led by Dr. Eva Namusoke, revealed everything from Asante gold looted during the Third Anglo-Asante War to items related to the 1897 British-led robbery of the Kingdom of Benin. Various items. Most artifacts are undocumented and not on display, reflecting limited awareness of the African labor and expertise involved in the collection. The items, housed in the university’s museums, botanical gardens and libraries, include Maasai armbands, early photographs of Africans and Egyptian archaeological finds. The discoveries are part of the Collections-Connections-Communities initiative, which aims to address the colonial origins of these collections. Dr Namousoke’s report highlights the need for further research and engagement with African communities. It also calls for greater public visibility to confront historical injustices and recognize the contributions of African workers.
source: British Broadcasting Corporation
