As institutions around the world struggle with the question of whether or not to 'repatriate' treasures obtained from other countries during times of conflict, author Christopher Joll delivered a fascinating webinar to Battle of Britain Memorial Trust supporters yesterday (Wed 24th).
Christopher, a graduate of Oxford University and the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, has researched the staggering array of treasures brought back to this country, including Hitler's desk and Eva Braun's knickers, and spoke about a range of 'spoils' in a webinar that proved fascinating and thought provoking.
At the heart of his talk, based on his book Spoils of War, Christopher asked the audience to consider the difference between legitimate 'spoils' obtained as a result of a military victory and looted items, which he said were simply theft.
It was a riveting talk, the latest in a series of free events organised by the Trust during lockdown, and prompted many questions from a large online audience.
The last in the current series of talks will be given by the Secretary of the Trust, Group Captain Patrick Tootal, a former Hercules pilot who will be giving a webinar entitled Travelling Through My Logbook on Wednesday 14 April.
It promises to be a fascinating illustrated journey from Patrick's first instructional flight on 27 July 1958 through life at RAF College Cranwell, his appearance in a Ladybird book and a distinguished career in an impressive variety of posts and operational theatres. It starts at 3pm and can be booked by following this link.
Meanwhile, signed copies of Christopher Joll's book Spoils of War are available - with sales boosting the Trust's funds. Supporters can receive 10% off the price of the book, together with free shipping by using the discount code BBMT2021 at checkout. To purchase a copy of this fascinating book, please click here.
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