Crusaders

Once a thriving Jewish community with 300-400 families in Jerusalem faced heavy taxes and persecution, making expansion difficult. Despite this, dedicated efforts by Jerusalem's Jewish residents attracted scholars and fueled a renaissance in nearby Safed during a time of relative peace.

Despite the strong Muslim presence in the region during this period, a significant population decline began in the late seventh century. Once fertile lands like the Negev became barren, a state that persists to this day.