The Spanish Inquisition (1478–1834): Origins, Methods, and Legacy

Background

Spain's large Jewish and Muslim populations and the Reconquista fueled desire for religious uniformity.

Establishment

1478: Pope Sixtus IV authorized Ferdinand and Isabella to create the Inquisition to target conversos and Moriscos.

Structure & Methods

• Headed by Council of the Supreme General Inquisition (Seville).
• Local tribunals; secret proceedings; torture used to extract confessions.

Impact

Expulsions/forced conversions reduced diversity; fear stifled intellectual discourse.

Decline & Abolition

Enlightenment ideas led to abolition in 1834 by Queen Regent Maria Christina.