New Genetic Study Reveals Christopher Columbus May Have Been Spanish and Jewish

Christopher Columbus

A recent genetic study led by Spanish scientists suggests that the renowned explorer Christopher Columbus may have been of Spanish and Jewish descent, challenging long-held beliefs about his origins. Traditionally thought to be Italian from Genoa, researchers now propose that Columbus was likely born in western Europe, possibly Valencia, and may have concealed his Jewish identity to escape persecution.

This groundbreaking research is rooted in over two decades of investigation. It began in 2003 when José Antonio Lorente, a forensic medicine professor at Granada University, and historian Marcial Castro exhumed what they believed to be Columbus's remains from Seville Cathedral. The study included DNA samples from Columbus's tomb and from his son, Hernando, and brother, Diego.

Historically, Columbus's origins have been debated, with around 25 conflicting theories proposing places ranging from Poland to Great Britain. The new findings suggest he lived in Spain during a time when approximately 300,000 Jews were faced with the choice of converting to Catholicism or leaving the country. Columbus's identity may have been hidden to navigate this hostile environment.

The research was announced in a documentary titled "Columbus DNA: His True Origin," which aired on Spain's National Day, commemorating Columbus's arrival in the Americas in 1492. Professor Lorente emphasized the reliability of the findings, stating they provide new insights into the explorer's legacy.

New Genetic Study Reveals Christopher Columbus May Have Been Spanish and Jewish