Although conquerors had looted art and cultural artifacts during previous wars, the Nazis took this activity to a whole new level during World War II. This six-week course will examine the factors that contributed to this massive theft, how some stolen materials were recovered and what, some 80 years later, is still missing. Who were the important Nazis involved? How was some art protected? Who were the Monuments Men? What roles have museums played in the on-going attempts to reunite looted art with the heirs of its rightful owners? These are some of the questions this class will address.

Chris Ryan, a retired librarian, enjoys sharing her interest in history with others.