TED-Ed: Ugly History: The Spanish Inquisition | Kayla Wolf

The Spanish Inquisition began in 1478, initiated by Pope Sixtus IV at the request of Catholic monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella to eliminate heresy. It targeted Jews, Muslims, and later, Conversos and Moriscos, forcing conversions or expulsions. Tribunals enforced the Inquisition, often based on anonymous accusations, leading to imprisonment, torture, and public punishments. The Inquisition lasted over 350 years, ending in 1834, leaving a legacy of fear, discrimination, and economic hardship, with significant impacts on religious minorities and Spanish colonial territories.

What was the primary reason for the establishment of the Spanish Inquisition?

• To promote trade with other nations

• To root out heresy in the Spanish kingdoms

• To expand the Spanish territories

• To establish a new monarchy

What was the purpose of the Edict of Grace during the Inquisition?

• To offer financial aid to the poor

• To declare war on neighboring kingdoms

• To provide a period of mercy for those confessing heresy

• To establish new religious laws

Why did many people confess to heresy during the Inquisition?

• To avoid harsher punishments later

• They were promised wealth and land

• They wanted to gain political power

• To convert to a different religion

Who were the Conversos targeted by the Inquisition?

• Protestants who converted to Catholicism

• Catholics who converted to Islam

• Jews who converted to Christianity

• Muslims who converted to Christianity

What was the fate of the Moriscos during the Inquisition?

• They were allowed to practice Islam freely

• They were exempt from taxes

• They were forced to leave Spain

• They were given high-ranking positions

What were actos de fe in the context of the Inquisition?

• Military parades showcasing power

• Religious festivals celebrating faith

• Public gatherings announcing punishments

• Secret meetings of the Inquisition

When did the Spanish Inquisition officially end?

• In 1789

• In 1834

• In 1492

• In 1609