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Today in History: Colegio de Santa Cruz founded in Mexico City

1/6/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 6, 1536, the Colegio de Santa Cruz was established in Tlatelolco, Mexico City, marking the first European school of higher learning in the Americas. Founded by Franciscans, it aimed to educate Native American boys for the Catholic priesthood. Its students significantly contributed to the Florentine Codex, but its eventual failure impacted the Mexican Church's history.

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Story summary

On January 6, 1536, the Colegio de Santa Cruz was established in Tlatelolco, Mexico City, marking the first European school of higher learning in the Americas. Founded by Franciscans, it aimed to educate Native American boys for the Catholic priesthood. Its students significantly contributed to the Florentine Codex, but its eventual failure impacted the Mexican Church's history.