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When were the Benin Bronzes stolen? This question has long haunted the art world and continues to spark debates and discussions to this day. The Benin Bronzes, a collection of over 1,000 brass and bronze sculptures, were looted from the Kingdom of Benin in present-day Nigeria by British soldiers during a punitive expedition in 1897. The theft of these invaluable artifacts has become a symbol of colonial exploitation and the ongoing struggle for cultural heritage preservation. This article delves into the historical context, the impact of the theft, and the ongoing efforts to repatriate the Benin Bronzes to their rightful home.