Author James Delbourgo stated the British Museum was the first "truly public" museum in the world. However, it could be argued the museum was not truly public based on Delbourgo's observation that A) visitors were originally charged a fee to enter. (B) the British Parliament founded it using tax dollars and other public funds. C) for the general public. it was meant only for dignitaries and scholars, no (D) initially, it included a private Board of Directors.

When the British Museum opened its doors in 1759, it was indeed a groundbreaking concept, making art and history accessible to more people than ever before. However, the original intent did lean towards benefiting the elite, with fees and restricted access. It wasn't until the 19th century that the museum gradually transformed to a more inclusive space, welcoming an ever-growing audience from all walks of life. As the years went by, the museum's policies evolved, allowing for free entry and broadening its appeal. Today, it's a beacon of cultural heritage, boasting millions of visitors yearly from across the globe. Yet, those initial barriers raise intriguing questions about who gets to define "public," making the museum's history a fascinating case study of accessibility and privilege.