What was the Spanish Inquisition and when did it take place?

What was the Spanish Inquisition and when did it take place?

The Spanish Inquisition was a judicial institution established by the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, in 1478. It aimed to maintain Catholic orthodoxy in Spain and eliminate any perceived heresy or religious dissent. The Inquisition targeted primarily Jews, Muslims, and conversos (Jews who had converted to Christianity), as well as other individuals who were suspected of practicing non-Catholic beliefs. The Spanish Inquisition lasted for over three centuries, officially ending in 1834. During this period, thousands of people were prosecuted, tortured, and executed, leading to a significant impact on the religious and social fabric of Spain.