Disputed Archival Heritage

Disputed Archival Heritage provides new insights into the implications of force, violence, and loss in the displacement of archival heritage, with chapters from established and emerging scholars focusing on Indigenous records, literary and community archives, sub-national and private sector displacements, successes in repatriating formerly displaced archives, and comparisons with cultural objects seized by colonial powers. It challenges Western understandings of records, place, and ownership and will be a valuable resource for academics, students, and practitioners in archives, records, information management, cultural property, and heritage management, peace and conflict studies, and international law.

Format: Hardback
Length: 342 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Disputed Archival Heritage offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the complex issue of displaced archives. In contrast to the common framing of shared or joint heritage, this book delves into the profound implications of force, violence, and loss in the displacement of archival heritage. Drawing from the expertise of established and emerging scholars in archival studies, Disputed Archival Heritage expands and enhances the ongoing discourse initiated in the earlier volume, Displaced Archives. The volume presents a range of chapters that explore innovative theories and methodologies for understanding disputes and claims over archives, with a particular focus on Indigenous records in settler colonial states, literary and community archives, sub-national and private sector displacements, successful repatriation efforts, comparisons with cultural objects seized by colonial powers, and the intricate relationship between repatriation and reparations. By examining key concepts such as joint heritage and provenance, the contributors challenge prevailing Western notions of records, place, and ownership, offering a more nuanced and inclusive understanding of the archival landscape.

Disputed Archival Heritage is particularly relevant in the context of the growing interest in shared archival heritage, the repatriation of cultural artefacts, and cultural diasporas. As such, it serves as a valuable resource for academics, students, and practitioners engaged in the fields of archives, records and information management, cultural property and heritage management, peace and conflict studies, and international law. The book provides a comprehensive examination of the challenges and opportunities associated with preserving and accessing displaced archives, shedding light on the complex dynamics that shape their preservation, access, and management.

In conclusion, Disputed Archival Heritage is a groundbreaking work that contributes significantly to our understanding of displaced archives. By exploring the multifaceted implications of force, violence, and loss in the displacement of archival heritage, the book offers valuable insights and methodologies for preserving, accessing, and managing these valuable cultural assets. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the field of archives, records, and information management, as well as cultural property and heritage management, peace and conflict studies, and international law.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367524012