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FBI Returns Stolen 16th-Century Cortés Manuscript to Mexico

8/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The FBI returned a 16th-century manuscript signed by Hernán Cortés to Mexico, outlining expedition expenses.
Dated February 20, 1527, the document was likely stolen between 1985 and 1993.
No charges will be filed due to the document's multiple ownerships since the theft.
This marks the second Cortés document repatriated by the FBI in recent years.

History

Historical Context

Hernán Cortés's 1527 documentation of his expedition expenses reflects Spain's colonial ambitions in the Americas, particularly following his conquest of the Aztec Empire in 1521. The theft of this manuscript between 1985 and 1993 highlights ongoing disputes over cultural heritage, emphasizing the complexities of ownership and repatriation of historical artifacts, crucial for preserving cultural identity in nations like Mexico.

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Story summary

The FBI returned a 16th-century manuscript signed by Hernán Cortés to Mexico, outlining expedition expenses.
Dated February 20, 1527, the document was likely stolen between 1985 and 1993.
No charges will be filed due to the document's multiple ownerships since the theft.
This marks the second Cortés document repatriated by the FBI in recent years.

1 / 2