Converso History

Conversos were Jews in medieval Spain and Portugal who converted to Christianity—often under duress—during periods of intense persecution, especially in the 14th and 15th centuries.

The term Converso refers to Jews who, facing violent pogroms and increasing pressure from Christian authorities, converted to Catholicism to avoid expulsion or death.

The most significant wave of conversions occurred after the anti-Jewish riots of 1391 and culminated with the Alhambra Decree of 1492, which expelled all practicing Jews from Spain. Although many converted, suspicion lingered: Conversos were often accused of secretly practicing Judaism (becoming so-called crypto-Jews), leading to widespread discrimination and scrutiny by the Spanish Inquisition.

Despite their conversion, they were frequently marginalized and excluded from full participation in Christian society. Over generations, some Conversos assimilated, while others preserved fragments of Jewish identity in secret, a legacy that still resonates in cultural and genealogical rediscoveries today.

I can also explore how Converso identity has resurfaced in modern times through DNA studies and cultural revival.