Analyze how the Edict of Expulsion still impacts the modern descendants of the crypto-Jews who settled in Spain’s American colonies during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.

Modern descendants of crypto-Jews remain resistant to adopting Christian practices into their religious and cultural traditions.
Modern descendants of crypto-Jews remain resistant to adopting Christian practices into their religious and cultural traditions.

Modern descendants of crypto-Jews follow some of the Judaic religious and cultural traditions brought by their ancestors.
Modern descendants of crypto-Jews follow some of the Judaic religious and cultural traditions brought by their ancestors.

Modern descendants of crypto-Jews speak Ladino more frequently than English or Spanish.
Modern descendants of crypto-Jews speak Ladino more frequently than English or Spanish.

Modern descendants of crypto-Jews have to practice their Jewish faith in secret.

1 answer

Modern descendants of crypto-Jews have to practice their Jewish faith in secret due to the historical persecution and discrimination they faced as a result of the Edict of Expulsion. They continue to face challenges in openly expressing their religious beliefs and maintaining their cultural identity. This secrecy often leads to a sense of isolation and a lack of connection with the larger Jewish community. It also affects their ability to fully participate in Jewish religious and cultural practices, as they may not have access to synagogues, kosher food, or other resources. The fear of persecution and the need for secrecy impact their daily lives and sense of belonging. Additionally, the intergenerational trauma resulting from the Edict of Expulsion and its consequences continues to affect the psychology and identity of modern descendants of crypto-Jews.