In a move of historical significance, France has returned three human skulls to Madagascar, including one believed to be that of King Toera of the Sakalava community. The French army killed King Toera in 1897, severing his head and transporting it to Paris. These remains were kept in a museum in Paris for 128 years. In August 1897, France launched an attack on the Menabe state in western Madagascar as part of its imperial ambitions, leading to a large-scale massacre in the Sakalava region. Following King Toera’s death, his head was taken to Paris, where it was displayed as a colonial ‘trophy’ in the Natural History Museum. Alongside King Toera’s skull, the skulls of two other members of the Sakalava community were also returned. Each skull was carefully wrapped in traditional Malagasy cloth and sent in sealed containers. The repatriation was the result of long-term efforts by the people and government of Madagascar, and the implementation of a new French law in 2023 to facilitate the return of human remains. This action is part of France’s ongoing initiative to return human remains obtained during its colonial era, which started with the return of Sarah Baartman’s remains to South Africa in 2002. France’s Musée de l’Ome Museum holds over 30,000 biological specimens, including many skulls. Countries like Argentina and Australia are also requesting the return of their ancestors’ remains. The Madagascar government has planned a dignified funeral for these skulls, with a special program being organized.
