During the colonial era, Africa was ravaged by the looting of resources and treasures. Among the most valuable treasures taken from Africa are:
1. Cullinan Diamond🇿🇦: Weighing 621.35 grams and worth $400 million, this diamond was discovered in South Africa in 1905. It was cut into nine large pieces, with the largest, Cullinan I, weighing 530.20 carats and mounted on Queen Elizabeth II’s scepter.
2. Rosetta Stone🇪🇬: This ancient Egyptian artifact, worth $7.2 million, was discovered in 1799 and is now in the British Museum. It features inscriptions in multiple languages and helped scholars decipher hieroglyphs.
3. Tsavo Lions🇰🇪: These man-eating lions, worth $3.5 million, were responsible for deaths in Kenya in 1898. They were killed and purchased by the Field Museum of Natural History in 1924.
4. Bangwa Queen🇨🇲: This artifact, valued at $3.4 million, was taken by German colonizers in 1899 from the Bangwa people of Cameroon. It represents the power and health of the Bangwa people and is currently in France.
5. Benin Bronze (Queen Idia)🇳🇬: These metal plaques and sculptures, worth $2.7 million, were looted by British colonial forces and traded across Europe. Some are currently in the British Museum.
Note: The values mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on market conditions and other factors.
These treasures are not only valuable but also hold significant cultural and historical importance to their respective communities. Their removal from Africa during colonialism has left a lasting impact on the continent and its people.
Peoplesmind
