Sephardic Judaism refers to the Jewish cultural and religious traditions of the Sephardic Jews, who originally lived in the Iberian Peninsula, particularly in Spain and Portugal. After the Spanish Inquisition in the late 15th century, many Sephardic Jews were expelled or forced to convert to Christianity, leading to the establishment of communities in various parts of the world, including North Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas. Sephardic Jews have distinct customs, liturgical practices, and languages, such as Ladino, a Judeo-Spanish language. Their religious observances often incorporate unique melodies and rituals, reflecting a blend of Jewish and local cultural influences. Today, Sephardic Judaism continues to thrive, contributing to the rich diversity of the global Jewish community.