cnnespanol.cnn.com
Coins Confirm Colombian Shipwreck as the San José Galleon
New research confirms that a shipwreck off the Colombian coast is the 300-year-old San José galleon, based on coins discovered using underwater vehicles and photogrammetry which show mint marks from Lima, Peru, in 1707, aligning with historical accounts of its sinking after a battle with the British in 1708.
- What specific evidence from the recent study conclusively links the discovered shipwreck to the San José galleon?
- A new study provides strong evidence that a recently discovered shipwreck off Colombia is the San José galleon, a Spanish warship sunk in 1708. Researchers used underwater vehicles and photogrammetry to identify coins with the symbols of the Spanish monarchs and Lima mint marks from 1707, confirming the wreck's post-1707 date and origin. This discovery aligns with historical records of the San José's involvement in the Tierra Firme fleet, which sank after a battle with British forces.
- How does the discovery of the coins and their characteristics contribute to a broader understanding of 18th-century maritime trade and Spanish colonial history?
- The discovery of coins from the shipwreck strengthens the identification as the San José galleon, known as the "Holy Grail of shipwrecks." The coins, described as "cobs" or "macuquinas," were the primary currency in the Americas for over two centuries, supporting the historical context of the San José's cargo. This finding connects archaeological evidence with existing historical records of the Tierra Firme fleet's voyage and subsequent loss.
- What are the potential long-term implications of the ongoing legal dispute for the archaeological study and future recovery of artifacts from the San José wreck?
- The ongoing legal dispute over the San José treasure, valued at roughly \$17 billion, adds complexity to the discovery. A US maritime salvage company, Sea Search-Armada, claims prior discovery in the 1980s and is suing the Colombian government for half the treasure's value. This legal battle highlights the challenges in balancing historical preservation with economic interests and potentially delaying the full exploration and recovery of the wreck.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the discovery's significance in confirming the identity of the San José and the immense value of the treasure. The headline (not provided, but inferred from the text) likely focuses on the confirmation rather than the ongoing legal battle. This emphasis may unintentionally downplay the ongoing legal dispute and present a more positive narrative around the discovery, potentially influencing reader perception.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and descriptive. Terms like "Santo Grial de los naufragios" (Holy Grail of shipwrecks) are used, but these are commonly used in the context of significant historical discoveries. There are no clearly loaded terms or emotionally charged language.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the confirmation of the shipwreck's identity and the value of the treasure. It mentions a legal dispute with Sea Search-Armada (SSA) but doesn't delve into the details of SSA's claims or counterarguments beyond stating the Colombian government's rejection. This omission could leave the reader with an incomplete understanding of the controversy surrounding the shipwreck and its treasure.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified narrative by focusing primarily on the confirmation of the San José's identity and the value of the treasure, without adequately exploring the complexities of the legal dispute. It doesn't fully present SSA's perspective, creating a false dichotomy between the Colombian government's claims and the implied certainty of the findings.
Sustainable Development Goals
The discovery and research of the San Jose galleon shipwreck contributes to a better understanding of maritime trade routes and the history of Cartagena, a significant port city. This contributes to the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage, enriching the understanding of the city's past and potentially boosting sustainable tourism.