World
Two skulls likely belonging to enslaved people returned to Brazil after Harvard used them in eugenics studies
Publication: World news | The Guardian
Author: Tiago Rogero in Rio de Janeiro
Source published: 11/11/2026, 22:50:37 UTC
Briefing created: 11/11/2026, 23:14:05 UTC
Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 11/11/2026, 23:09:24 UTC.
Briefings
Two human skulls, one from Salvador and one from Rio de Janeiro, were repatriated to Brazil after being used in eugenics research at Harvard University. The skulls belonged to individuals involved in the 1823 slave revolt, and their return marks the first time these specific remains have been returned to their place of origin since the 19th century.
Key points
- Two skulls were repatriated to Brazil, one from Salvador and one from Rio de Janeiro.
- The skulls were taken from the United States in the 19th century and used in eugenics studies at Harvard University.
Context
Harvard University utilized these skulls in eugenics research, and diplomats facilitated their return to Brazil. This event marks the first repatriation of these specific remains since the 19th century.
Limitations
The evidence is limited to the repatriation event and the historical context of the skulls' origin. Specific details about the individuals' identities beyond their connection to the 1823 revolt are not confirmed, and the exact dates of the Harvard eugenics study usage are not specified.
Generated by Bittrees-hosted qwen35-2b sha256:aaf42c8b7c3c on 11/11/2026, 23:14:05 UTC. Based on publisher-provided feed evidence; may not cover the full original article. Check the source for details.
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