Othello is described as a Moor , people who are Muslim and reside in South Africa. However, from reading  Act 1 and 2, it does not seem like he is Muslim. Maybe, Othello might have been a Muslim but he converted to Christianity after marrying Desdemona.I think he converted because it is unlikely that Othello could have been born a Christian, as Moors were Muslim and Muslim men usually get circumcised.Also, in Act 2 Scene 3, Iago says “ And then for her, To win the Moor, were to renounce his baptism.” Furthermore, on page 52 (ACT 2 SCENE 3, line 161), Othello says “For Christian Shame put by this barbarous brawl.”

The text does not clearly state whether Othello is a Venetian. I think he identifies himself as one after living there and being in the Venetian army. Since Othello is a skilled soldier and is in great demand by the duke and senate, the Venetian government trusts him to put him in full political command of Cyprus.