The Edict of Expulsion, issued in 1492, had a profound and lasting impact on the Jewish communities in Spain and its colonies, especially for those who converted to Christianity but continued to practice Judaism in secret—known as crypto-Jews. These modern descendants maintain aspects of their ancestral heritage, which can include the following observations:
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Cultural and Religious Practices: Many modern descendants of crypto-Jews follow some of the Judaic religious and cultural traditions brought by their ancestors, even if they do not openly identify as Jewish. Practices may include celebrating certain Jewish holidays, observing dietary laws, or using specific rituals that are reminiscent of their ancestors' faith.
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Language Use: While some descendants may still use Ladino—a language derived from medieval Spanish and infused with Hebrew and other influences—most modern descendants today primarily speak the dominant language of their country, which could be Spanish, English, or Portuguese, depending on the region. Ladino is more of a marker of heritage rather than a daily spoken language for many.
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Religious Identity: The legacy of the Edict of Expulsion has led many modern descendants to practice their Jewish faith in secrecy, especially in more conservative or predominantly Catholic regions. Generational trauma and the historical persecution faced by their ancestors still impact their open religious identity.
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Resistance to Conversion: Many modern descendants remain resistant to adopting Christian practices into their religious and cultural traditions. This resistance can be seen as a form of cultural preservation, where they strive to maintain rituals and customs that reflect their historical roots despite societal pressures.
In summary, the Edict of Expulsion has led to a complex interplay of hidden and expressed identities among modern descendants of crypto-Jews, influencing their cultural practices, religious observance, and language use in varying degrees.
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