WASHINGTON, D.C. — The FBI officially returned a 16th-century manuscript signed by Hernán Cortés to the Mexican government.
The document, dated February 20, 1527, details financial planning related to Cortés’ expeditions during the Spanish conquest. It is an original historical record believed to have been stolen from Mexico’s national archives sometime between the 1980s and 1990s.
The repatriation resulted from a coordinated effort involving the FBI, the New York Police Department, the Department of Justice, and Mexican authorities. The manuscript surfaced in the New York public domain, prompting law enforcement and historical experts to authenticate it before proceeding with its return.
This marks the FBI’s second successful recovery and return of stolen artifacts to Mexico, following the repatriation of another Cortés document in 2023. The FBI’s dedicated Art Crime Team, which collaborates with international partners, led the investigation.
Officials emphasized the manuscript’s historical importance as a crucial record of early American history and the Spanish conquest. Mexican representatives expressed gratitude and highlighted the document’s significance for the country’s cultural heritage.
The return underscores ongoing concerns about protecting cultural property and preventing illegal trade and theft of historical documents. Both the United States and Mexico reaffirmed their commitment to preserving cultural assets and strengthening international cooperation.
The manuscript has been secured within Mexico’s national archives, where it will be accessible to the public for educational purposes. Authorities also noted efforts to digitize archives and enhance security to prevent future thefts.
The FBI continues to pursue cases involving stolen cultural property worldwide, emphasizing the importance of global collaboration in protecting historical treasures.