The insightful and provocative series Stuff the British Stole returns to ABC for its third episode of the second series on Monday, July 1, 2024, at 8:00 pm, with all episodes also available for streaming on ABC iview. In this installment, host Marc Fennell takes us on a journey to South Africa and London, uncovering the dark history of colonialism and the extraction of wealth.
The episode focuses on the story of the largest gem-quality diamond ever found, discovered in South Africa’s Premier Mine in 1905. This diamond, equivalent in size to a human heart, has played a significant role in the British Empire, being displayed at Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral and King Charles’ coronation.
Marc’s exploration takes him deep underground into South Africa’s first diamond mine, where he uncovers the harsh realities of the colonial past and the extraction of wealth for the glory of colonisers. He meets young African diamond cutters and hears their perspectives on the intergenerational theft of resources.
The journey also delves into the brutal history of the Boer War and its connection to South Africa’s colonial legacy and apartheid. Marc shines a light on the impact of colonialism, as he explores London and the opulent destinations where the wealth extracted from colonies was funnelled, benefiting the British Empire.
Stuff the British Stole, Series 2, Episode 3 airs Monday, July 1, at 8.00 pm on ABC, with all episodes available for streaming on ABC iview.
