musālimah

The term "musālimah" refers to native Spaniards who converted to Islam during the period of Muslim rule in the Iberian Peninsula, also known as Al-Andalus. These converts, along with their descendants known as muwallads, formed a significant portion of the population. While initially distinct from Arab and Berber Muslims, the musālimah played a crucial role in the social and cultural fabric of Muslim Spain.1

During the Christian Reconquista, surrendering Muslim communities, known as Mudéjars, were often granted religious freedom by treaty. However, this tolerance waned, leading to forced conversions. Those who converted but secretly practiced Islam were known as Moriscos. Despite being racially indistinguishable from Old Christians, Moriscos maintained Muslim customs and language, leading to suspicion and discrimination. This culminated in their expulsion from Spain in the early 17th century, with an estimated 300,000 relocating to North Africa.2