The Battle Over Jews in Medieval Spain

Lecturer: Thomas Barton, USD

During the Middle Ages, the Christian-ruled kingdoms of Spain which contained significant populations of Jews and Muslims. These communities were permitted to reside as protected ethno-religious minorities with the free practice of religion and a few basic liberties in return for their commitment to serve as law-abiding members of society. Retaining these non-Christian groups was advantageous for the Christians since they possessed valuable skills and wealth. Over time, the Spanish monarchies started to lay claim for exclusive royal rights to lucrative prerogatives such as control over public order, the coinage of money, and jurisdiction over Jews.