From: When the Moors Ruled in Europe
Spain kicked the governing Moors out of Spain in 1492, but allowed some Muslims to remain. Over time, the religious rights of the remaining Moors were restricted.
By 1609, the Moors (Moriscos in Spanish) were ordered to be totally expelled from Spain. It took about 5 years to complete.
Why is this important?
We know that many of these Moriscos went to Latin America. The early colonial records speak of Moors in Spain. There is evidence that the guachos might own part of their culture and dress to the Morisos.
I put this in as a reference point. Latin and Arab culture are different – certainly in religion – but not as different as one would think.