Additional Coverage:
Christopher Columbus’s Origins Revealed by DNA
After decades of speculation, Spanish scientists have confirmed that the renowned 15th-century explorer, Christopher Columbus, was a Sephardic Jew from Western Europe.
This discovery was made possible through DNA analysis of remains believed to belong to Columbus, which were buried in Seville Cathedral. By comparing the DNA to samples from known relatives and descendants, researchers found genetic markers consistent with Jewish ancestry.
The investigation, led by forensic expert Miguel Lorente, spanned over two decades. It aimed to settle the long-standing debate surrounding Columbus’s origins, which have been a source of contention among historians.
While the researchers were able to confirm Columbus’s Jewish heritage, they were unable to pinpoint his exact birthplace, concluding that he was born somewhere in Western Europe.
The findings shed new light on the life and legacy of Christopher Columbus, who played a pivotal role in the European conquest of the Americas. The discovery of his Jewish heritage adds a layer of complexity to his story and challenges traditional assumptions about his identity.