Wanderlust World Wanderlust World In 1492, the Catholic Monarchs, Queen Isabella I of Castile and King Ferdinand II of Aragon, issued the Alhambra Decree, which ordered all Muslims to either convert to Christianity or leave the country within four months. This decree was the culmination of a long history of persecution of Muslims in Spain, which had intensified in the 15th century. The Alhambra Decree resulted in the expulsion of hundreds of thousands of Muslims from Spain, many of whom fled to North Africa and the Ottoman Empire.
Voluntary Emigration
In addition to the expulsion, there was also a significant amount of voluntary emigration of Muslims from Spain in the 15th and 16th centuries. This was due to a number of factors, including the desire to escape persecution, the search for economic opportunities, and the influence of Sufi missionaries who encouraged migration to Islamic lands.
Conversion
Some Muslims chose to convert to Christianity in order to avoid expulsion. These converts were known as "Moriscos" and they were often subjected to discrimination and suspicion by the Christian majority. In 1609, Philip III issued a decree expelling all Moriscos from Spain. This decree resulted in the expulsion of hundreds of thousands of Moriscos, many of whom were sold into slavery or forced to convert to Christianity.
Legacy
The expulsion of the Muslims from Spain had a profound impact on Spanish society and culture. It led to a decline in intellectual and scientific achievement, and it also contributed to the rise of intolerance and bigotry in Spain. The legacy of the expulsion continues to be felt in Spain today, and it is a source of ongoing debate and discussion.