Diamonds are more than just pretty objects. Passed down over centuries, they can tell the story of their pasts. But that story isn't always a happy one. For many South Asians, the diamond that invokes this painful colonial history is the Kohinoor diamond. It's one of the largest diamonds in the world. And it was taken during British colonial rule in the 19th century from what is now modern-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Today, the diamond belongs to the British royal family. But the death of Queen Elizabeth last September revived calls for its return.We discuss how artifacts taken during colonial periods should be handled in modern times, and what empires owe the people they've colonized.Want to support 1A? Give to your local public radio station and subscribe to this podcast. Have questions? Find out how to connect with us by visiting our website.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy