Religious Conflicts in the Late Middle Ages The Spanish Inquisition and Reconquista Standard 7.6.9 Religious Conflicts in the Late Middle Ages

The Reconquista: AD 711-1492 The Reconquest of the Iberian Peninsula– commonly known as the Reconquista—was fought between the Christian Kingdoms of the Iberian Peninsula and the Muslim Moors The Moors had conquered the Iberian Peninsula aside from the northern Kingdom of Asturias between 711 and 718.

What Happened? Christians had vowed to retake these lands, which lead to a series of battles lasting 750+ years. Christian and Muslim kingdoms fought against one another for control of Spanish lands, although there were periods of peace within the territory.

What Happened? Both the Muslim and Christian territories suffered from fighting within themselves as the various kingdoms within them fought for control. Mercenaries were willing to fight or either side—depending on who was willing to pay them more.

Christians vs. Muslims

Christians vs. Muslims

End of the Reconquista In 1492 the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile and Leon overtook the Muslim forces in 1492. The Reconquista ended with victory of the Christian states.

Impact Today Muslims and Jews were given the choice to either convert or leave Spain. Eventually, the monarchs of Spain began forcing non-Christians to leave in what became the very bloody Spanish Inquisition. The majority of people living in Spain today are Roman Catholic, however people practicing other major religions reside in Spain as well. Currently, Spaniards recreate the fights between Muslims and Christians as colorful parades with elaborate garments and lots of fireworks, popularly known as Levante.

Spanish Inquisition