What was the purpose of the Spanish Inquisition?

The purpose of the Spanish Inquisition was fundamentally to enforce Christian orthodoxy. Established in 1478, the Inquisition aimed to maintain Catholic doctrine in Spain, particularly in the wake of the Reconquista, the centuries-long campaign to expel Muslim rulers and ensure a unified Catholic kingdom. The authorities sought to root out heresy, including the conversion of Jews and Muslims to Christianity, to ensure that the populace adhered to the tenets of Catholic faith. This effort involved the persecution of those suspected of holding beliefs contrary to Catholic teachings, leading to trials and often severe punishment for individuals deemed heretics. The institution played a key role in shaping religious and social identities in Spain, reinforcing the power of the Church and the monarchy in maintaining a distinctly Catholic society.