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Protecting historic treasures

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Protecting Historic Treasures, September 2007 (Cover)

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Protecting Historic Treasures, September 2007 (Cover)

U.S. Support for Cultural Preservation in South and Central Asia   

Introduction

The people of South and Central Asia bring together some of the world's oldest cultures and religious traditions; their ethnic and cultural diversity reflect the changes that swept across the region over centuries.  Today's national boundaries are relatively modern inventions in a land crossed by generations of traders and pilgrims, nomads and warriors.  As South and Central Asia join the emerging global economy, historians and archeologists are exploring and unveiling the area's diverse intellectual and cultural heritage.  Simultaneously, many ancient structures, artifacts and traditions are in precipitous decline, making preservation an urgent priority.
 
Americans are more concerned than ever about cultural preservation.  Public and private museums, philanthropic organizations and educational institutions in the United States have made extraordinary efforts to preserve, understand and interpret South Asia's history and cultures.  In addition, the American people are active partners for historic preservation in South and Central Asia through the U.S. Ambassador's Fund for Cultural Preservation.  Although this booklet documents only a few of these projects, it illustrates the broad scope of these efforts and America's deep respect for this multicultural region's historic and contemporary achievements. 

September 2007

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