The Prince and the Plunder: How Britain took one small boy and hundreds of treasures from Ethiopia

Part revisionist history, part treasure hunt, this is the forgotten story of Ethiopia's 'Elgin Marbles' and a young prince taken out of Africa to live in Victorian Britain

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 02 February 2023
Publisher: The History Press Ltd

In 1868, British troops embarked on a daring expedition to the mountain empire of Ethiopia, where they stormed the citadel of its monarch, Tewodros II. Their mission was not just to seize Tewodros' treasures and sacred manuscripts, but also to kidnap his six-year-old son, Prince Alamayu. The prince was taken back to England, where he was welcomed into the royal household.

Andrew Heavens, in his book "The Prince and the Plunder," delves into the full story of Alamayu, from his early days in his father's fortress on the roof of Africa to his new life in England. The book follows the prince's journey, exploring his interactions with Queen Victoria, Lord Tennyson, and his towering red-headed guardian, Captain Speedy. Alamayu was celebrated for his unique charm and wit, but he was also stereotyped and never allowed to return to his homeland.

The book also sheds light on the loot that the British troops took from Ethiopia, known as the "Elgin Marbles." These marble sculptures were removed from the temples of Athens and transported to England by Lord Elgin. The whereabouts of the Elgin Marbles have been a subject of controversy for decades, with some arguing that they should be returned to their original location in Greece. The book follows the trail of the Elgin Marbles, tracing them to their current hiding places in bank vaults, museum store cupboards, and even a boarded-up cavity in Westminster Abbey.

"The Prince and the Plunder" is not just a story of adventure, trauma, and tragedy; it is also a reflection on our times. As we continue to grapple with the legacy of imperialism and seek to rectify the wrongs of the past, this book serves as a reminder of the complexities and consequences of Britain's colonial history. It encourages us to re-examine our past, to pull down statues of imperial grandees, and to look for other figures to commemorate and celebrate in their place.

In conclusion, "The Prince and the Plunder" is a captivating and thought-provoking book that sheds light on a little-known chapter of British history. It provides a fresh perspective on the complexities of imperialism, the power of storytelling, and the importance of confronting our past. Whether you are interested in history, literature, or social justice, this book is a must-read that will leave you inspired and challenged.

Weight: 584g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780750997362