The Secret Faith of Moriscos: A History of Forced Conversion and Persecution in Spain
Moriscos were the descendants of Muslims who were forced to convert to Christianity in Spain during the 16th century. The term "Morisco" comes from the Spanish word for "Moor," which was used to refer to Muslims.
After the Reconquista, the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella issued a decree in 1499 that all Muslims in Spain had to convert to Christianity or leave the country. Many Muslims chose to convert, but they were not allowed to practice their faith openly. They had to pretend to be Christians while still secretly practicing Islam. This situation is known as "crypto-Islam."
Moriscos lived in a state of religious limbo, where they had to hide their true beliefs and practices from the authorities. They were not allowed to speak Arabic or wear traditional Muslim dress. They had to attend Christian services and participate in Christian rituals, while secretly continuing to practice Islam in private.
The situation of Moriscos was difficult and often dangerous. Many were persecuted and killed for practicing Islam, and there were frequent revolts and uprisings against the Spanish authorities. In 1609, the Spanish king Philip III issued a decree that all Moriscos had to leave Spain or be expelled. Many Moriscos left for North Africa, while others remained in Spain and continued to practice their faith in secret.
Today, there are still some Morisco communities in Spain, particularly in the region of Andalusia. They have maintained their Islamic traditions and practices, despite the centuries of persecution and forced conversion. However, they are a small minority, and their presence is not widely recognized or acknowledged by the Spanish government.