ABSTRACT
Over the past decade, advances in archaeological science, palaeogenomics and biological anthropology have enabled the UK heritage sector to revise content about the appearance and origin of past peoples, such as the Bronze Age “Beaker folk” migration. Museums are uniquely placed to lead learning about population diversity, as they are trusted institutions with an emphasis on education, and through temporary and permanent exhibitions are able to present these complex data in accessible ways, which furthermore help push-back against the perception held (by some) of an “all white” past.
Our chapter reviews the pros and cons of these scientific advances, we will explore how outcomes are influenced by investment and decolonising activities, and review public responses to this new information.
