This book highlights museums as political instruments of the nation-state, shaped by the ruling political forces. Through case studies and interviews from Croatia, Hungary, and Turkey, it explores how the past is manipulated to support nationalism in the twenty-first century, revealing how museums are used to promote nationalist ideologies. The author argues that in a world dominated by nation-states, all museums function as national museums, regardless of their stated purpose. They often become battlegrounds for political conflicts, where national narratives are contested, rewritten, or even fabricated and displayed. The analysis focuses on both the decision-making and economic dimensions of museums, alongside their micro-sociological and political aspects. This dual focus lays the groundwork for broader reflections on museum-making dynamics in various contexts. The book offers unique insights into how museums embody culture in service of nationalism, making it a valuable resource for those studying museums, heritage, nationalism, memory, and politics.
