The British Museum was founded 250 years ago, in 1753. Its collections span all areas of the world, from prehistory to the present day. From the beginning the Museum's aim has been to shed light on the histories of cultures, for the benefit of present and future generations worldwide, by preserving, presenting, enhancing and researching the unique collections in its care. The British Museum: 250 Years charts the Museum's history, decade by decade, and is illustrated with many of the most important, beautiful and intriguing objects in the British Museum.