Rise of Museums

The book analyzes the modern museum's development in the 19th and 20th centuries, shaped by nationalism, colonialism, and industrialization. Museums became tools for nation-building, vehicles for asserting cultural dominance, and spaces for public education.

It addresses contemporary challenges such as repatriation and digital engagement, examining how museums adapt to changing demographics and grapple with colonial legacies. Structured around three core themes, Rise of Museums traces the trajectory of these cultural institutions while critically exploring the social, political, and economic forces that shaped them. Using a range of primary and secondary sources, including museum archives and exhibition reviews, this book provides a balanced account of the complex history, highlighting both achievements and shortcomings across its chapters.