How a controversial bust of Winston Churchill made its way back to the Oval Office

President Donald Trump reinstated a controversial bust of Winston Churchill in the Oval Office, reigniting discussion about its historical significance and prior removals by presidents. There are two identical busts, one in the White House collection and another that was loaned by the UK government. Obama’s decision to keep the bust out of the Oval Office was perceived as a slight to the UK, despite denials from former aides that it was based on anti-British sentiment. The bust has a complex history reflecting U.S.-UK relations and changing presidential attitudes.

The decision by former president Barack Obama not to return the collection's bust to the Oval Office was considered by some to be a snub to the UK government.

A statement published by The White House in 2012 refuted this view, stating that the idea President Obama showed antipathy towards the British is completely false.

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