Inquisition

Inquisition is a group of institutions within the judicial system of the Roman Catholic Church that aims to combat heresy. It started in 12th-century France and was later expanded to other European countries. The Inquisition played a major role in the final expulsion of Islam and Judaism from the Iberian Peninsula in the late 15th century.

History

The Inquisition was established in the late 12th century by Pope Lucius III to combat the spread of heresy. It was initially a papal institution, and its procedures were set out in a papal bull, Ad Abolendam, "For the purpose of doing away with." The Inquisition was later expanded to other parts of Europe, including Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

Procedures

The Inquisition used various methods to combat heresy. These included the use of torture, the confiscation of property, and the execution of heretics. The Inquisition also used a system of informants, who were encouraged to report any suspected heretics to the authorities.

Impact

The Inquisition had a significant impact on European society. It led to the expulsion of Jews and Muslims from the Iberian Peninsula, and it also played a role in the spread of the Reformation. The Inquisition also had a lasting impact on the way the Catholic Church dealt with heresy, and it has been the subject of much historical debate and controversy.

Criticism

The Inquisition has been widely criticized for its methods and its impact on society. Critics argue that the Inquisition was a tool of political and religious control, and that it was used to suppress dissent and to consolidate power. The use of torture and the execution of heretics have also been widely condemned.

See also

• Spanish Inquisition
• Medieval Inquisition
• Roman Inquisition

References

Inquisition Resources
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