Ferdinand of Aragon and Isabella of Castile, the rulers of Spain, declare the Spanish Inquisition.
All the Jews in their territory were compelled to convert to Christianity or flee the country. While some converted, many others left for Morocco and North Africa. Confessions were “extracted. Estimates are that between four and eight thousand secret Jews (Marranos)—or perceived secret Jews—were burnt alive.
Torquemada was the notorious Chief Inquisitor of the Church. His name justifiably becomes synonymous with evil incarnate. [Note that the crimes of the Inquisition (and they were many), affected Moors and Muslims, as well].