English Jews Suffered From the Third Crusade

In 1189, Richard the Lionhearted was crowned king of England and announced his intent to join the Third Crusade. This declaration fanned anti-Jewish sentiment among the populace, who proceeded to target several English Jewish communities. Notable among them was the Jewish community of York, where 150 Jews, under siege at Clifford’s Tower, met a tragic death.

Although there is no reliable source for the custom, Jews traditionally have not lived in York, or even spent a night there, since the massacre.