Manuel I of Portugal Orders Jewish Expulsion

December 5th, 1496

December 5th, 1496

Manuel I of Portugal Orders Jewish Expulsion
How Long Ago?

528 years, 3 months, 10 days ago

Location

Portugal

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Manuel I of Portugal
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Manuel I of Portugal Orders Jewish Expulsion

King Manuel I of Portugal issued a decree mandating the expulsion of Jews from the country. Many Jews had lived in Portugal for generations, providing essential services and contributing to the economy. However, influenced by the prevailing Christian doctrine and pressure from various factions, Manuel I's decree forced them to leave, with many facing dire circumstances in their search for refuge elsewhere. The edict's implementation marked a significant turning point for the Jewish community in Portugal, leading to widespread displacement.

Manuel I was influenced by clerical pressures.

Economic role of Jews was significant in Portugal.

Conversion was initially considered before expulsion.

Thousands sought refuge in other countries post-decree.

What Happened?

King Manuel I of Portugal, influenced by the political and religious currents of the time, enacted a decree that expelled Jews from Portugal. This decision came in the context of the broader European trend towards the marginalization of Jewish communities, particularly following significant events like the Reconquista in Spain and earlier expulsions in other regions. The economic contributions of the Jewish population, which included merchants, moneylenders, and artisans, were often at odds with the social pressures from the Christian majority that sought to assert dominance in the post-medieval society. Manuel I had initially considered allowing Jews to remain in exchange for their conversion to Christianity, showing a temporary inclination towards coexistence. However, the prolonged pressures from influential clerics and noble factions ultimately led to the implementation of the expulsion order. The aftermath saw thousands of Jews fleeing to other countries or practicing their faith in secret, leading to a significant decline in the Jewish population and culture in Portugal. The event symbolized a broader pattern of intolerance and the impact of religious expeditions against minorities across Europe during that era.

Why Does it Matter?

The decree issued by King Manuel I is significant as it reflects a critical moment in the relationship between state and religion in medieval Europe, influencing later attitudes toward Jewish communities. The expulsion served as a precursor to further anti-Semitic policies in various European nations and showcased the vulnerability of marginalized communities under political pressure. This event paved the way for subsequent Jewish diasporas and altered the demographic fabric of not only Portugal but also surrounding regions, impacting trade, culture, and social structures for centuries to follow.

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