During the second half of the 18th century, there was a stronger emphasis on scientific interest related to the study of certain natural phenomena. However, this did not prevent censorship from continuing to control and withdraw information about disasters that occurred in territories of the Hispanic Monarchy from circulation. To what extent did geostrategic factors play a role in the withdrawal of printed materials reporting the effects of disasters? In order to answer this question, this article analyzes the circulation and subsequent confiscation by the Council of the Indies of a printed account in Cádiz and Madrid detailing the effects of the hurricane in October 1768 in Havana and surrounding regions. The goal is to contribute to the debate and enhance understanding of the circulation of information regarding disasters in America during the 18th century.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.3989/revindias.2023.021