The establishment of the Portuguese Inquisition in 1536 by King John III targeted conversos, or New Christians, and later extended its reach to the colonies, including Goa. This institution aimed to enforce religious orthodoxy and suppress heresy within Portuguese territories. The Inquisition's impact on society was profound, leading to persecution and social unrest, and it played a significant role in shaping religious and cultural dynamics in Portugal and its colonies.

The establishment of the Portuguese Inquisition in 1536 documented trials that influenced satirical and protest poetry in Iberian and colonial literatures critiquing religious authority. Poets like Luis de Camões and Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz used their works to challenge oppressive structures and advocate for justice.