Portrait of a soldier in historical uniform next to an old handwritten letter — A letter from San Martín found in Scotland rewrites the history of independence | La Derecha Diario

Camara — A letter from San Martín found in Scotland rewrites the history of independence | La Derecha Diario

An unpublished letter from San Martín containing secrets of South American independence has been found

Previously unpublished letter from San Martín discovered in Scotland with key information about independence and ties to the United Kingdom

14/08/2025 09:10:00h

Editorial Team

A historic discovery shakes the academic landscape. In Scotland, an unpublished letter by José de San Martín was found, containing unknown details about the South American independence. The document confirms political and personal alliances between Argentina and the United Kingdom at the beginning of the 19th century.

The letter, written in Brussels on March 19, 1827, remained hidden for almost 200 years. It now opens the door to rewriting key chapters of Latin American history. The discovery was made possible thanks to an international team of Argentine and Scottish researchers.

Old letter handwritten in cursive with a signature at the end

San Martín's signature | La Derecha Diario

Where and how the letter was found

The manuscript appeared in June 2025 in the archives of the University of Aberdeen, among the private papers of James Duff, IV Earl of Fife, a close friend of the Liberator. The discovery was made by Juan Dávila y Verdin, Ian Williams, Pam Williams, Colin Helling, and Veronica Owen, with the support of the Duke of Fife and the Aberdeen University Collections.

What the document reveals

San Martín introduces General William Miller to the Earl and describes him as a "compatriot" who contributed to the independence of America. He highlights the services rendered "at the cost of his blood."

According to specialists, the discovery offers a new perspective on transatlantic connections and the British role in the independence struggles. It reveals little-known political ties between both regions.

Old handwritten letter on folded paper, written in black ink with cursive handwriting, on a table and partially held down by two circular objects at the upper corners.

What the document reveals | La Derecha Diario

The link between San Martín and the United Kingdom

San Martín lived in London in 1811, where he interacted with Latin American patriots. In 1812, he returned to Buenos Aires on the British frigate George Canning, together with Carlos María de Alvear and Matías Zapiola.

In 1822, he returned to the United Kingdom and in 1824 received the Freedom of the Royal Burgh of Banff, his first recognition on British soil. Today, his legacy remains present in commemorative plaques, statues, and museums.

Old handwritten document on folded paper held by two circular glass objects at the upper corners

San Martín introduces General William Miller to the Count | La Derecha Diario

Academic impact and future of the research

The international team will publish detailed reports and analyses on the documents in the coming months, which will be available to historians, educators, and the public. According to Dávila y Verdin, this source will allow for a better understanding of the network of personal alliances that drove Latin American independence.

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