The Race for Ancient Egypt in Color
In 1922, Howard Carter’s discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun transforms Egyptology into a global sensation, along with a race to unearth, and control, Egypt’s ancient heritage. This archaeological fervour unfolds against a backdrop of profound political change. As Egypt’s ancient past captures the world’s imagination, its new government seeks a greater say in how that past is managed.
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The Race for Ancient Egypt in Color on BBC Select
Episode 1: Revolution and the Boy King
Howard Carter uncovers Tutankhamun, igniting a political fight over the tomb.
In the midst of political upheaval, British archaeologist Howard Carter uncovers the tomb of Tutankhamun-an extraordinary find that transforms Egyptology overnight. The collision of national pride, global attention, and long-standing foreign control leads to a tense standoff between Carter and Egyptian authorities, ending with the government taking charge of the tomb and Carter stepping aside.
Episode 2: The Fight for Egypt’s Past
Egypt pushes for authority over its heritage; foreign archaeologists race for new finds.
Carter returns to Tutankhamun’s tomb, where the unveiling of the coffins and the death mask captivates the world. But his return comes with new conditions: Egypt insists that all treasures remain in the country; an important nationalist victory. Egyptian excavators, whose skill and labour made every discovery possible, are rarely credited or recorded, while Western archaeologists are acclaimed.
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