Lord Elgin Strikes Again.

[stuey]

Remember the controversy over the "Elgin Marbles"? Here's an interesting article regarding the Lord's escapade in China: http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-30810596

[Old_Geezer]

Heck of a long article. Gave up after a bit.

Whilst wanton destruction is always regrettable, from what I read it seems that the Chinese at the time brought it upon themselves. And now a new generation of authority seems they wish to control the masses thoughts by blaming the enemy at that time.

If cultures can not leave the past behind, there is no hope for mutual respect & cooperation now or in the future.

[stuey]

You're right, OG: it is quite a long read. However, forgetting the political and moral implications, I found it really fascinating including the mention of the introduction of the Pekinese dog into England.

[tamborine]

Fair exchange no robbery! China gained a rich ultra mod city from a salt cellar, when Hong kong was returned to them.

http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Hong_Kong

[Baldric]

What controversy over the Elgin Marbles, we got a receipt Guv honest!

//Following a public debate in Parliament and the subsequent exoneration of Elgin, the marbles were purchased by the British government in 1816 and were passed to the British Museum, where they stand now on display in the purpose-built Duveen Gallery. Wiki///

[stuey]

Baldric, type "Elgin Marbles" into the search bar at the top of the page. Anyway, I found the article interesting just because of the history involved, not because of any social, moral, or political asides.