A recent genetic study conducted by Spanish scientists presents a new perspective on the mysterious origins of Christopher Columbus, the famed explorer known for his 1492 voyage to the Americas. Traditionally thought to be Italian from Genoa, new evidence suggests Columbus was instead Spanish, possibly born in Valencia, and he might have concealed his Jewish identity or converted to Catholicism to escape persecution. This hypothesis challenges long-standing beliefs about his roots and opens up the discussion given over 25 theories of his birthplace, including nations like Poland, Great Britain, and Greece, among others. The study began in 2003 when researchers exhumed presumed remains of Columbus from the Seville Cathedral. Through DNA analysis of these samples, along with those from Columbus's son and brother, scientists compared historical and familial genetic information. The research, detailed in the documentary "Columbus DNA: His True Origin," claims to be "almost absolutely reliable." This announcement coincided with Spain's National Day, commemorating Columbus's historical journey. The fresh insights suggest that Columbus likely lived as a secret Jew in Spain during a period of religious expulsion, which aligns with the estimates of 300,000 Jews being forced to convert or flee in 1492. This development provides a nuanced understanding of Columbus, whose arrival in the Caribbean marked the beginning of European exploration and had profound impacts on indigenous populations.
Genetic Study Reveals Columbus's Spanish and Jewish Heritage
Genetic Study Reveals Columbus's Spanish and Jewish Heritage
New research challenges Christopher Columbus's traditional Italian origin, suggesting he may have been Spanish-Jewish.
Recent genetic findings propose that Christopher Columbus was Spanish and possibly of Jewish descent, contradicting the long-held belief of his Italian origins.
