When artifacts from colonized societies appeared in Western museums, they were often labeled with European 'discoverers' and acquisition dates, ignoring indigenous creators. Contemporary museums increasingly provide context about colonial acquisition, including instances of looting. Some critics advocate full repatriation; others argue museums can serve educational purposes if they acknowledge troubled histories. The debate reflects broader tensions between preserving access and addressing historical injustice.
The passage suggests that
all museum artifacts were acquired through ethical means
critics unanimously agree that repatriation is unnecessary
institutional practices may require reexamination as understanding of historical context evolves
indigenous creators were always credited in colonial-era museum labels
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. Museum practices are changing as colonial context is acknowledged.
- Context clues: Earlier practices ignored creators; museums "increasingly provide context"; debate about what to do.
- Meaning: As understanding of history changes, practices adapt.
- Verify: The shift from hiding to acknowledging "troubled histories" shows evolution.
💡 Strategy: When current practices are changing based on new historical understanding, infer reexamination.
Choice A is incorrect because "looting" is explicitly mentioned. Choice B is incorrect because some critics "advocate full repatriation." Choice D is incorrect because earlier labels "ignored indigenous creators."