A discussion in a different group has left me with some basic questions about Converso family name conventions. Why did families choose new names either when converting to Christianity or conversely when re-judaizing outside of Spain or Portugal. Was it a requirement for New Christians to change their name from their Jewish origins? Or a way of self preservation? When re-judaizing outside of Spain or Portugual - would family memory guide the new names? or did families choose their Jewish names independantly? In one particular case - why would "Pacheco da Silva" become "Mendes Seixas"? Or vice versa?Any help would be appreciated. Thank you!