Speed Reading — Benin Bronzes - Level 4 — 300 wpm

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Germany will give back artefacts taken from Nigeria during the 19th century. The Benin Bronzes are currently in a German museum. The Bronzes consist of more than a thousand sculptures and statues. The Edo people made them in what was the Kingdom of Benin. They decorated the royal palace there. British forces looted most of the objects in 1897. They went to museums across Europe. Nigeria has tried for decades to get them returned.

Experts say the pieces being returned are highly regarded works of African art. The Institute for Benin Studies said Germany is, "leading in the global restitution movement" of former colonial powers returning looted treasure. It said other countries should accept the objects looted in 1897 belong to Nigeria. Countries should discuss the future of the objects. Some Nigerians believe the objects are safer in Europe.

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