Spanning from its establishment in 1478 to its final dissolution in 1834, the Spanish Inquisition stands as one of history's most infamous institutions, widely recognized for fueling religious and racial persecution. Yet the Spaniards themselves did not create its legal structure or its core mission—the reconciliation of heretics with the Catholic Church. This authoritative scholarly work brings together leading international researchers who critically examine the institution's origins, legal mechanisms, victims, reach, and limitations across different time periods and geographic areas. Grounded in cutting-edge scholarship and extensive archival research, the chapters trace the medieval foundations that preceded the Inquisition, chronicle its turbulent establishment and ultimate decline, and explore how inquisitors shifted their focus throughout the centuries. The book also investigates the role of physical spaces in shaping investigative and prosecutorial practices, while uncovering the inquisitors' deep preoccupation with social rank and legal entitlements. Additionally, the contributors expose the controversies that threatened to compromise both inquisitors and their networks. Ultimately, this volume delivers a nuanced, historically grounded perspective on the Spanish Inquisition as a pivotal force in European history.

In 1922, the Greeks and the remaining Armenians in what is now Turkey were forced to leave their homeland, and the properties they left behind were termed "abandoned property" (emval-i metruke). This legal designation implied that the absent owners still held their property rights and were represented by the state. However, in practice, their homes, lands, and belongings were confiscated. These assets were repurposed to satisfy the immediate housing needs of the remaining population, distributed among the wealthy and powerful, and sold at public auctions. Initially, only a small portion of the abandoned property was under the control of the new Ankara government, which was eager to use it as a source of revenue for its strained finances. Before this could be fully realized, the government encountered various forms of both active and passive resistance: homeless individuals and refugees took over the "abandoned" properties, while members of parliament were initially hesitant to pass laws that would legitimize government control over these assets. Beginning in 1924, the compensation for incoming migrants from Greece (the so-called exchangees) threatened the state's financial stability and created friction between the newcomers and the existing residents. By exploring these aspects of the "abandoned property" situation, this book offers important insights into the socio-economic and political history of early republican Turkey.

The revival and unity movement led by Naum Faiq gave rise to numerous influential individuals who greatly shaped the young Assyrian national movement through their literary works. Among Naum Faiq's long-time collaborators was Senharib Balley (1878-1971), who became a notable champion for the national cause, actively promoting it through his writings.

In his early years, Balley's family endured tragedy during the 1895 massacres in Amid (Diyarbakir), resulting in the deaths of his father and one brother, while he himself suffered serious injuries. In his hometown, he quickly rose to prominence as a key figure in the Intibah movement at the turn of the 20th century, playing an essential role in its growth across Upper Mesopotamia.

In the United States, Senharib Balley's name has become closely associated with the founding of various organizations, including the Assyrian American National Federation, which he co-founded in 1913. Even a few years before his death, he continued to share his insights on current Assyrian issues through different magazines.

Balley's extensive writings and correspondence provide readers with a window into the intellectual discussions that took place during a difficult fifty-year span for our people. Yet, in many respects, these works inspire a sense of bravery and assurance regarding national identity and the necessity of safeguarding it.