The ancestors of the Museum of Civilization and the War Museum began collecting precious objects more than 150 years ago. Now, with some 4,000,000 artifacts and specimens to choose from it is not surprising that the several hundred selected for this book will resonate with many readers. These great objects are a window on our world: the last Red Ensign that flew over Parliament Hill while a fiery debate raged below; the revolver found in the pocket of a man later hanged for the assassination of one of the Fathers of Confederation; a gift that Charles De Gaulle never got; or medals and memorabilia from Canada? military heroes in various theatres of war. Among the artifacts featured are outstanding examples of ethnographic regalia, archaeological specimens, as well as objects fashioned from gold, silver, bronze and ivory that would be standouts in any national collection. All of these come from Canada? largest and most popular museum. The artifacts are beautifully photographed and vividly explained in brief articles. The life work of these two great museums are also described in the introductory essays. Frank Corcoran spent most of his working life at the Canadian Museum of Civilization and its organizational antecedents, serving most of his career as a senior executive in the area of Public Programs. He worked extensively on the planning, development and operation of what is now Canada? largest and most popular museum. Prior to retirement and for several years thereafter he worked in IMAX film development managing the museum? involvement in civilization film production. Dr. Victor Rabinovitch is President and Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation, which is responsible for the Canadian Museum of Civilization and the Canadian War Museum. During his eleven years of cultural leadership in this position, the Museums have dramatically expanded their range of public exhibitions, audiences and artifact collections. The Canadian War Museum was designed and built, while extensive renewal of the Museum of Civilisation was also completed. Major national and international collaborations were initiated, and are now an integral part of the activities of both Museums.