Planet Money
The fight for a legendary shipwreck's treasure
Feb 7, 2025
Dive into the epic tale of the San Jose, a 17th-century galleon brimming with treasure, which sank off Colombia in 1708. Discover the thrilling search for its wreckage and the astonishing treasures unearthed, along with the intense legal battles over ownership. Delve into the historical implications that reveal colonial legacies and the indigenous voices advocating for reparations tied to this maritime saga. The complexities of undersea claims highlight the intertwining of history, morality, and the quest for lost riches.
23:29
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The discovery of the San Jose shipwreck has sparked intense legal disputes over ownership among Colombia, Spain, and indigenous groups, reflecting colonial legacies.
- The utilization of advanced technology like autonomous underwater vehicles has modernized underwater archaeology, aiding in the location of historically significant shipwrecks.
Deep dives
The Discovery of the San Jose
An autonomous underwater vehicle, developed by Mike Purcell, was utilized to locate the historically significant San Jose shipwreck off the coast of Colombia. This Spanish galleon sank in 1708 and is believed to carry billions of dollars in treasure, including gold, silver, and teacups. The team discovered key remnants of the ship, such as cannons, anchors, and scattered gold coins, validating their belief that they had indeed found the storied vessel. The Colombian government celebrated this discovery, envisioning its potential significance for the country’s heritage and economy.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
