Mismonumentalizing and Decolonizing: Public History as History for the Public.

The article discusses the recent decade's heightened scrutiny of historical symbols such as statues and monuments in public areas, driven by multicultural communities aiming to reshape historical narratives to be more inclusive and diverse. It highlights artist Kehinde Wiley's bronze sculpture, "Rumors of War," as an illustration of artwork that challenges the viewer to contemplate the history of colonialism, racial issues and slavery. The author concludes that the representation of history necessitates substantial public involvement and introspection.