Archive · 14 Aug 2025
FBI Returns Stolen Cortes Manuscript to Mexico
The U.S. gave back an important piece of paper to Mexico.
It was written by Hernán Cortés a long time ago and is dated February 20, 1527.
Someone took it from Mexico's archives a long time ago.
The FBI found it and gave it back.
Because it changed hands so many times, no one will be charged with a crime.
This helps show that it's important to return old and important items to the country where they belong.
The FBI returned a manuscript page signed by Hernán Cortés to Mexico.
The document dates from February 20, 1527.
The manuscript was stolen from Mexico's national archives decades ago.
No charges will be filed due to the document's complex history.
This repatriation supports efforts to return historical artifacts.
- Who
- The FBI returned the manuscript to Mexico.
- What
- The FBI returned a manuscript page signed by Hernán Cortés to Mexico.
- When
- The document is dated February 20, 1527.
- Where
- The document was returned to Mexico.
- Why
- The repatriation is part of a broader effort to return historical artifacts to their countries of origin and to deter the illicit antiquities market.
- Document Type
- Manuscript page
- Signatory
- Hernán Cortés
- Date
- February 20, 1527
- Returned By
- FBI
- Returned To
- Mexico
- Reason for No Charges
- Complex chain of custody
