A CONTRIBUTION TO THE ISSUE OF CULTURAL IMPERIALISM IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA – THE CASE OF PROVINCIAL MUSEUM

Abstract

Aim of this paper is to show certain aspects of scholarly activities of the Provincial Museum in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Our most important argument is that the rule of Austria-Hungary in occupied Bosnia and Herzegovina is colonial in its nature and we tend to analyze the role of Provincial Museum in such context. The basic directions of research done by the historical-archaeological department of the Provincial Museum are presented and analyzed, as well as the actions of a few employees who proved to be key in the process of implementing the proclaimed cultural mission of Austria--Hungary within occupied Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Provincial Museum was the most important cultural institution during the Habsburg period in Bosnian history. Therefore, it is essential to understand its role and mission. We aim to analyze in broader context research that was done and to comprehend the influence it had.