Massacre of suspected Jews in Lisbon
April 21st, 1506
April 21st, 1506

How Long Ago?
518 years, 10 months, 22 days ago
Location
Lisbon, Portugal
Category
Crime & Law
Links & References
Tags
Massacre of suspected Jews in Lisbon
In April 1506, over 1,900 suspected Jews were killed in Lisbon by a mob of Portuguese Catholics. This three-day massacre erupted amid a backdrop of escalating tensions and religious fervor following the forced conversions of Jews to Christianity in Portugal. The violence began with a rumor about a miraculous incident in a local church, leading to widespread hysteria and an outpouring of revenge against the Jewish population. The authorities struggled to intervene as the mob rampaged through the city, resulting in staggering loss of life and property.
Over 1,900 Jews reportedly killed.
Lasted three days amid religious tensions.
Mob violence stemmed from a church rumor.
Authorities failed to intervene effectively.
What Happened?
The massacre in Lisbon was a catastrophic event that marked a violent manifestation of anti-Semitic sentiments in early 16th-century Portugal. After the expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492 and subsequent forced conversions in Portugal, tensions simmered beneath the surface. By 1506, these tensions erupted violently following an incident in a nearby church, where a supposed miracle triggered unrest among the populace. Rumors spread rapidly, igniting fears and inciting hatred towards the Jewish community, who were largely rich and successful merchants, and deemed scapegoats for various calamities, such as the recent droughts and famine.
Over the course of three days, from April 19 to April 21, 1506, armed mobs descended on the Jewish quarters, armed with clubs and swords. Estimates suggest that approximately 1,900 Jewish individuals were killed, while many more faced terrible violence and their properties were ransacked and destroyed. The local authorities were either unwilling or unable to restore order, allowing the chaos to unfold with little reprieve. Despite the unprovoked violence, the crown later instituted some legal constraints to protect conversos, those who had converted to Christianity but were still seen with suspicion.
The massacre also prompted philosophical and religious debates among the elite, resulting in the exploration of Jewish rights within the wider context of Christianity. Figures such as King Manuel I, who had previously enforced the Jewish conversions, faced pressure to address the repercussions of the violence. The event served to sharpen divisions between Christians and the Jewish community in Portugal, as the legacy of the massacre would haunt subsequent relations for generations.
Why Does it Matter?
The Lisbon Massacre stands as a stark reminder of the sometimes violent interplay between religion, politics, and societal fears. It highlights how scapegoating can spiral into brutal acts of violence, suggesting a lesson in tolerance and the protection of minorities. The event also led to shifts in legal enforcement regarding the treatment of conversos and Jews in Portugal, influencing societal structures significantly.
Discover More Historic Events from April 21st
KRI Nanggala (402) Submarine Sinks in Bali Sea
The Indonesian Navy submarine KRI Nanggala (402) sank in the Bali Sea during a military drill, leading to the loss of all 53 crew members onboard. The submarine went missing after requesting permission to dive, sparking an extensive search and rescue operation. Indonesian authorities and other nations' naval forces mobilized resources to locate the vessel. The tragic incident highlighted the challenges and dangers associated with submarine operations, especially in training exercises.
Continue ReadingEaster Sunday Bombings in Sri Lanka
Eight bombs detonated at churches and hotels across Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, resulting in at least 269 deaths and hundreds of injuries. The coordinated attacks targeted three churches during Easter services and several luxury hotels in Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa, raising concerns over religious extremism. Authorities quickly traced the bombings to local Islamist extremist groups and indicated links to international jihadist movements, leading to widespread fear and heightened security measures.
Continue ReadingFlint switches water source to Flint River
Flint, Michigan, switched its water supply from Lake Huron to the Flint River to save money, which led to major public health issues, including lead poisoning in thousands of people and at least a dozen deaths from Legionnaires' disease. The switch was a cost-saving measure during a financial emergency for the city, but it exposed the population to hazardous water conditions.
Continue ReadingCollision of Two Trains Near Amsterdam
A head-on collision occurred between two trains near Sloterdijk, Amsterdam, resulting in one fatality and injuring 116 individuals. Rescue operations were initiated promptly, with emergency services responding swiftly to ensure the safety of passengers. The collision took place due to a signal failure, which led to both trains entering the same track at the same time. This incident raised concerns about railway safety protocols and highlighted the urgent need for upgraded signaling systems.
Continue ReadingKharkiv Pact Signed By Ukraine and Russia
Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev signed the Kharkiv Pact in Kharkiv, Ukraine, which allowed Russia to maintain naval access in Sevastopol in exchange for discounted gas prices. This agreement was contentious within Ukraine and faced significant opposition, illustrating the complex relationship between Ukraine and Russia. The pact allowed Russia to extend its lease on naval bases in Crimea for an additional 25 years, significantly impacting regional dynamics.
Continue ReadingCoordinated Suicide Bombings in Basra Police Stations
Five suicide car bombers targeted police stations in and around Basra, resulting in the deaths of 74 people and injuring 160. The attacks marked one of the deadliest waves of violence in Iraq during the early phase of the insurgency, severely impacting local security forces and raising concerns over the effectiveness of post-invasion governance. The bombers struck in the morning, utilizing vehicles packed with explosives to maximize casualties and chaos.
Continue Reading