The Spanish Inquisition and the Surnames of Conversos Jews

During the Spanish Inquisition, myths often circulated regarding the actions of Jewish converts, known as Conversos or Marranos. One such myth suggested that some Jews changed their surnames to colors so others would identify them as Jewish. However, this was not the case. The truth is far more nuanced and fascinating, reflecting the complexities of religious identity and power during this tumultuous period in history.

Understanding the Spanish Inquisition

The Spanish Inquisition, established in 1478 by the Catholic Monarchs, was designed to uphold the religious orthodoxy of the kingdom and root out so-called heresy. The inquisition targeted not only Muslims (Mudejars) but also Jews who had converted to Christianity (Conversos or Marranos) and those suspected of practicing their original faith in secret.

Chosen Surnames and Religious Identification

Contrary to popular belief, Conversos did not change their surnames to color names or symbols. In fact, they were required to adopt surnames that already existed among the Christians. The surnames chosen were often those commonly used by the aristocracy or the noble classes, which made it even more challenging to identify non-Christians.

For example, some Conversos adopted surnames like Blanco (white), Rojo, Royo (red), or Bermejo (red), which were common among Spanish Christians. These names were not exclusive to Jews or Muslims but were chosen to blend into Christian society.

Unique Measures and Their Implications

Despite the varied and colorful choices of surnames, Conversos faced significant challenges. Any strange or unusual names raised suspicion and could lead to persecution. This requirement inadvertently protected Conversos by making it difficult for others to single them out as non-Christians.

Examples of Conversos and Their Changes

A fascinating example can be found in the town of Daroca, located in Aragon. During the period from 1414 to 1426, the Spanish government recorded the names of Conversos who had converted. The records show that while they adopted common Christian names, they did not use color surnames in a way that would make their Jewish heritage immediately apparent.

Name After Conversion Original Jewish Name Profession Blanco Benjamin ha-Levi Merchant Rojo Royo Saul ha-Levi Farmer Bermejo David ha-Levi Blacksmith

These examples highlight the diverse professions and the names chosen by Conversos in Daroca. The data reveals that the names were not chosen for any noticeable markers but rather for their compatibility with the existing Christian nomenclature.

Religious Persecution and Expulsion

The 1391 massacre of Jews in Spain and the sermons of Saint Vicente Ferrer, a Valencian priest, compounded the fears of the Jewish community. Many Conversos and Jews were forced to convert or face persecution. This created tension and suspicion, leading to the eventual Spanish Inquisition and the expulsion of Jews in 1492.

The Conversos who stayed in Spain were often suspected of maintaining their Jewish customs in secret, a behavior known as crypto-Judaism. The authorities, particularly the Inquisition, continued to monitor these individuals, leading to further persecution and eventually the expulsion of the remaining Jews.

Conclusion

During the Spanish Inquisition, the actions of Conversos and the dynamics of religious identity were far more complex than simple surname changes to colors. The choice of surnames was intended to blend in with Christian society and protect those who had converted. Despite these efforts, the religious and social tensions of the time led to increased persecution and the eventual expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492.