Slaves in the New World, circa 1500

Researchers have found the remains of African slaves in a 16th century Mexican graveyard, confirming historical accounts that slavery began in the New World not long after Europeans conquered Mexico, according to a new study.

The graves were discovered near the ruins of a colonial church in Campeche, Mexico, a port city on the Yucatan Peninsula. The authors of the study being released Tuesday say the remains are the earliest physical evidence of slavery in North America.

Full story at MSNBC.