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Marc Fennell on writing his 'deeply uncomfortable' history book, 'Stuff the British Stole'

August 4, 2026 · 48 min

Show notes

What happens when history stops being polite? In this wide-ranging author interview, Marc Fennell explains Stuff the British Stole, an “Indiana Jones in reverse” journey through the British empire, and the wild histories hidden behind polite little museum labels. We discuss cultural ownership, his career journey, and the extraordinary stories about contested objects in the world's biggest museums and galleries.


First, Read is hosted by Charle Malycon, and this episode's guest is Marc Fennell.


Produced by Liz Burnett. Video Production by Michael Windle and Isabella Francis. Additional research and scripting by Lydia Burgham. Theme song composed by Kieran Parker. Content co-ordination by Tiana Warner. Graphic design by Olivia Mead.

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