ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a case study of the appropriation of archaeological monuments by colonial powers in order to canonize their world hegemony. The premise is that imperial powers aim to legitimate their rule by cannibalizing other civilizations in order to assume a supreme position in the order of the world. The chapter examines the history of appropriating obelisks and the probable rationale for such undertakings in order to develop a historically grounded opinion on how archaeological heritage ought to be managed in a globalized world. Smith argues that the past is used to appeal for precedent, especially at times of rapid change or major ruptures, as in the rise of nationalism or the establishment of a new political regime, when the past acquires a special relevance. The chapter is concerned with the removal of Egyptian obelisks to the cities of Europe, commencing with the transport of obelisks by Roman emperors.
