A stunning discovery in Argentina’s Supreme Court basement has unearthed seven champagne crates filled with World War II-era Nazi propaganda and membership documents, hidden since 1941. This find, described as a “discovery of global significance,” offers potential clues about the Holocaust and Nazi financial networks. In this article, we delve into the historical significance of this find, Argentina’s complex wartime history, and celebrate its vibrant culture with a traditional empanada recipe. Via AFP.
The Discovery of Nazi Documents
In May 2025, workers moving non-digitized archives in the basement of Argentina’s Supreme Court stumbled upon seven wooden champagne crates. Inside, they found postcards, photographs, notebooks, and Nazi party membership documents intended to “consolidate and propagate Adolf Hitler’s ideology in Argentina,” according to a court statement. The crates, sent from the German embassy in Tokyo to Buenos Aires in June 1941 aboard the Japanese steamship Nan-a-Maru, were seized by Argentine customs officials after a random inspection revealed propaganda materials. A federal judge ordered their confiscation in September 1941, and they remained forgotten until now. The Buenos Aires Holocaust Museum is now assisting with an inventory to uncover Holocaust-related insights. Learn more at Holocaust Museum Buenos Aires.
[](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1w3jlqlp27o)Historical Context: Argentina and the Nazis
Argentina’s neutrality during much of World War II made it a target for Nazi propaganda efforts. After the war, the country became a haven for Nazi fugitives, including Adolf Eichmann, captured in Buenos Aires in 1960, and Josef Mengele, who fled to Paraguay and Brazil. The Simon Wiesenthal Center estimates thousands of Nazis escaped to Argentina, facilitated by “ratlines.” This discovery may shed light on Nazi financial networks and their attempts to influence South America. In April 2025, Argentina declassified files on Nazi criminals, reflecting ongoing efforts to confront this history. For more, visit Simon Wiesenthal Center.
[](https://www.thejournal.ie/trove-of-nazi-documents-found-in-champagne-crates-in-the-basement-of-argentinas-supreme-court-6703048-May2025/)Argentine Culture: The Beloved Empanada
Amid its complex history, Argentina’s culture shines through its cuisine, particularly empanadas—savory pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. These handheld delights are a staple at gatherings, reflecting the warmth of Argentine hospitality. Below, we share a classic beef empanada recipe to bring a taste of Argentina to your kitchen.
Traditional Beef Empanada Recipe
Ingredients (Makes 12):
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 1/2 cup green olives, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- For the dough, mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Add water, knead until smooth, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- In a skillet, cook beef, onion, and bell pepper until browned. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in eggs and olives. Cool.
- Roll out dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into 5-inch circles. Place 2 tbsp filling in each, fold, and crimp edges to seal.
- Brush with egg wash. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden.
- Serve warm, paired with chimichurri sauce if desired.
Why This Discovery Matters
The unearthed documents highlight Argentina’s role in global history and its Jewish community’s resilience, the largest in Latin America. The 1994 AMIA bombing, killing 85, underscores the community’s challenges. Analyzing these crates could reveal new details about the Holocaust and Nazi operations, contributing to global understanding. Explore Argentina’s Jewish history at AMIA.
[](https://www.enca.com/opinion/nazi-files-found-champagne-crates-argentine-court-basement)Conclusion
The discovery of Nazi documents in Argentina’s Supreme Court basement is a sobering reminder of the country’s wartime connections and the global reach of Nazi ideology. By exploring Argentine culture through empanadas, we celebrate the nation’s vibrancy amid its complex past. Stay informed with Planet-Today.com.
Author: Planet-Today.com
Nazi documents | Argentina Supreme Court | Holocaust clues | Argentine empanadas | Nazi propaganda