Christopher Columbus was not an Italian but a Jew, recent genetic study suggests

Tomb of Christopher Columbus at the Cathedral of Seville (AFP)

A recent genetic study led by Spanish scientists has challenged the long-held belief that famed explorer Christopher Columbus was Italian. The research, using DNA from Columbus' remains, suggests he may have been a Sephardic Jew from Spain who concealed his heritage to avoid persecution.

Traditionally thought to be from Genoa, Italy, Columbus' background has been the subject of debate for years.

The DNA analysis, as detailed in the Spanish documentary Columbus DNA: The True Origin, shows markers in both Columbus and his son Hernando Colón that are compatible with Jewish ancestry.

Confirming the same, forensic investigator Miguel Lorente stated, "We have DNA from Christopher Columbus, very partial but sufficient, and both in the Y chromosome and mitochondrial DNA of Hernando, there are traits compatible with Jewish origin."

Notably, the research was initiated by forensic medicine professor José Antonio Lorente and historian Marcial Castro in 2003. It began with the exhumation of Columbus’ remains from Seville Cathedral.

The research's findings suggested Columbus may have either hidden his Jewish roots or converted to Catholicism to escape the widespread religious persecution in 15th-century Spain. Though the exact birthplace of Columbus remains uncertain, Valencia, Spain, is considered a strong possibility.

Significantly, this revelation could reshape our understanding of Columbus' identity and background. However, Columbus’ legacy remains controversial. While his voyages across the Atlantic, funded by the Spanish monarchy, led to European colonization of the Americas, his expeditions resulted in the brutal treatment and enslavement of indigenous populations. According to historical accounts, Columbus’ men maimed and enslaved many local people, including children.

Columbus died in 1506 in Spain, and his remains were relocated several times before finally resting in Seville. This latest discovery offers new insight into one of history's most debated figures.