5 Most Expensive Bribes in History

Описание: 1. Cleopatra’s Pearl – A Bribe of Supremacy
Cleopatra dissolved one of the world's largest pearls in vinegar and drank it—not to show off, but to win a bet with Mark Antony, proving Egypt’s unmatched wealth. But more than that, it was a power move—a political seduction that secured her influence over one of Rome’s most powerful men.
🧠 Bribe of romance and allegiance.

2. Manhattan Island for Trinkets – A Manipulative Bargain
In 1626, Dutch colonists gave Native Americans about $24 worth of trinkets to "buy" Manhattan Island. To the Dutch, it was a bribe cloaked as a trade, exploiting cultural misunderstandings and value differences.
🧠 Bribe to gain land without bloodshed (at first).

3. Trojan Horse – A Bribe of Deception
The Greeks offered the giant wooden horse as a "gift" to the Trojans—pretending to surrender. Inside, hidden soldiers waited. The Trojans accepted the bribe, rolled it into their city... and paid the ultimate price.
🧠 Bribe disguised as tribute to gain military access.

4. Koh-i-Noor Diamond – A Political Bribe Disguised as a Gift
After British colonization, the Koh-i-Noor was handed over by a child ruler of Punjab under duress, and presented to Queen Victoria. Although framed as a "gift," it was effectively a colonial bribe extracted through pressure, symbolizing surrender.
🧠 Bribe to secure favor and suppress rebellion.

5. Louisiana Purchase – A Strategic Bribe Between Empires
France sold vast land to the U.S. at a low price, not just for cash—but to bribe American neutrality while Napoleon focused on war in Europe. It bought him time and peace on the western front.
🧠 Bribe to gain political breathing room and cash.