This text examines why the African past, namely its art and antiquities, is disappearing at a rate perhaps unmatched in any other part of the world. Each essay looks at the international network of looting and trafficking, and the conclusion discusses specific steps that could halt the process.

This text examines why the African past, namely its art and antiquities, is disappearing at a rate perhaps unmatched in any other part of the world. Each essay looks at the international network of looting and trafficking, and the conclusion discusses specific steps that could halt the disappearance of Africa'a cultural heritage. The text presents an indictment of African contributions to the problem, and the contributors include African government and museum officials, members of international agencies, academics, and journalists.