Columbus and the Inquisition

Thanks for the documents Ikki, and everyone for the input.

I think I should tell you guys why I am asking this question.  I am interested in doing a research paper which is going to be about 2500 words, where the theme has to be "Triumph and Tragedy".  So to stay within the theme, I wanted my topic to be:

"The triumph of the discovery of the new world, over the tragedy of the inquisition and reconquista."

Ofcourse, I need to prove a good connections between the events, which culminated in 1492.  So some way I want to prove how the Inquision and the reconquista help lead to Columbus' voyage.

Do you guys think this is a plausible paper?  Given your inputs, it seems that there was little connection between the Inquisition and the Exploration.. but maybe the reconquista?  You think there is enough connection to justify a 2500 word research paper?

Mate, the idea seems good at first sight but you'll find some problems.

First and foremost: why would the Reconquista be a tragedy. I mean as a war it was indeed, but not more than any one else. And in what sense the discoveries were a "triumph".?

Do you allow me to give you a piece of adviece: concentrate on the Inquisition, it is a very interesting theme full of romanticism and drama...

For instance did you know that the Inquisition was at the basis of our judicial system. In France the judge's work is said to be "inquisitorial".

These psychotic, fanatic monk actually invented something very simple: the proof. Before them, a dual would solve a criminal investigation. But for them it wasn't enough... They wanted a confession. If they couldn't have the confession, two material evidence or one material evidence and two witnesses would do the trick. Of course at the end the confession was necessary and the use of torture perfectly accepted. But a confession without witnesses and without evidence had (officially) little chance to be accepted in court.

Furthermore, who at this time regarded the nobles and the peasants as equals? The inquisition! The priests could burn a beggar and a countess alike.

Isn't it one of the biggest paradoxes you've ever encountered? One of the very bases of democracy (i.e. the fair trial and the isonomia: the equality in front of the law) comes from this most hated institution?