Spanish scientists have revealed through a new genetic study that Christopher Columbus, the renowned explorer who made contact with the Americas in 1492, was likely of Spanish and Jewish descent. Their research, including DNA analysis from supposed remains, points to his probable birth in Valencia, Spain, starkly challenging the long-standing theory of Columbus as an Italian from Genoa. By concealing his Jewish origin, or possibly converting to Catholicism, Columbus might have been evading the Spanish Inquisition's religious persecution. Despite approximately 25 conflicting theories about his birthplace spanning Europe, this study, underway since 2003, highlighting a mix of historical and genetic evidence, indicates Columbus lived in Spain and was Jewish, possibly hiding his identity during an era when Jews faced forced conversions or expulsion. Announced in a Spanish television documentary during Spain's National Day celebrations, the study’s results promise to ignite fresh dialogue around the explorer’s true background.