American Museum of Natural History

Definition

The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) is a prominent museum located in New York City, renowned for its extensive collections, research, and exhibitions related to natural history. It plays a significant role in the discussion surrounding the repatriation of cultural artifacts and human remains, particularly those belonging to Indigenous peoples of the Americas, as it holds many items acquired during periods of colonialism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The American Museum of Natural History was founded in 1869 and is one of the largest museums in the world, housing over 34 million specimens.
2. The museum has faced criticism for its collection practices during the colonial era, particularly regarding how Indigenous artifacts were acquired without consent from the original communities.
3. AMNH has made strides towards addressing past injustices by engaging in dialogues with Indigenous communities about the repatriation of their cultural items.
4. In recent years, the museum has developed policies that promote the return of human remains and artifacts to Indigenous groups, recognizing the importance of these items in their cultural identity.
5. The museum's actions reflect a broader movement among institutions to reconsider their roles in preserving cultural heritage and promoting reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

Review Questions

• How does the American Museum of Natural History's collection relate to the ethical considerations surrounding repatriation?
  • The American Museum of Natural History's collection includes many artifacts and human remains that were obtained during periods when consent from Indigenous peoples was not sought. This raises ethical questions about ownership and stewardship, prompting discussions on repatriation. The museum's recognition of these issues has led to engagement with Indigenous communities to determine appropriate actions regarding the return of these items.
• Discuss the steps taken by the American Museum of Natural History to address concerns regarding its collections and Indigenous rights.
  • The American Museum of Natural History has taken significant steps to address concerns regarding its collections by implementing policies aimed at repatriating human remains and cultural artifacts to Indigenous communities. The museum has initiated dialogues with these communities to better understand their needs and perspectives. This approach not only acknowledges past wrongs but also fosters a more respectful relationship between the museum and Indigenous peoples.
• Evaluate the impact of the American Museum of Natural History’s efforts on broader discussions about Indigenous rights and cultural heritage in museums.
  • The efforts by the American Museum of Natural History have significantly influenced broader discussions on Indigenous rights and cultural heritage within the museum sector. By actively engaging in repatriation initiatives and re-evaluating its collection practices, AMNH sets a precedent for other institutions. This movement emphasizes a shift towards ethical stewardship and reconciliation, highlighting the importance of acknowledging historical injustices while empowering Indigenous communities to reclaim their heritage.

Related terms

Repatriation: The process of returning cultural artifacts and human remains to their country or community of origin, often driven by ethical considerations and the rights of Indigenous peoples.

Cultural Heritage: The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society that is inherited from past generations, which includes art, traditions, and historical sites.

Indigenous Rights: The collective rights of Indigenous peoples to maintain and develop their cultural identity, access to traditional lands, and the preservation of their cultural heritage.