Benzion Netanyahu
The Origins of the Inquisition in Fifteenth Century Spain.
Random House, 1992. Author-inscribed first printing. 0679410651 xxii/1384 pages.
Volume, measuring approximately 7" x 9.75", is bound in black cloth, with stamped gilt lettering to spine and author's initials stamped in gold on front cover. Book is in excellent condition, with firm binding, clean and bright interior. Dust jacket displays very light shelfwear and is preserved in mylar cover.
Inscription to Cornell president Frank H. T. Rhodes reads:
"For President Frank H. T. Rhodes, / Unique as leader, scholar and gentleman, / With sincere admiration, / B. Netanyahu / June 7, 2000".
"A groundbreaking work of history that exposes the genesis of the Spanish Inquisition and reveals the roots of modern anti-Semitism. Professor Netanyahu conclusively demonstrates that allegations against Jewish converts - that many 'conversos' were in fact 'secret Jews' - were largely unfounded and served to mask the real reason for the Inquisition: the destruction of a wealthy and influential minority for political ends. A bold and brilliantly elaborated new interpretation."