Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte

Various Muslim dynasties, including the Mamluks and the Ottoman Empire, ruled over the area, and the holy sites of Jerusalem remained under Islamic authority. During this period, European interest in the Holy Land and the idea of reclaiming it resurfaced occasionally, but no major military expeditions took place until the 19th century.

In the late 18th century, the dynamics in the region began to shift with the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. In 1798, Napoleon launched a military campaign to Egypt as part of his broader ambitions to challenge British interests in India and establish French supremacy in the Eastern Mediterranean. Napoleon's campaign was marked by military victories, but he faced difficulties in Egypt, particularly when Admiral Horatio Nelson defeated the French fleet at the Battle of the Nile in 1798, isolating the French army in Egypt.

During his stay in Egypt, Napoleon expressed interest in the historical and religious significance of the region, including Jerusalem. Although he did not directly conquer Jerusalem, his expedition contributed to European curiosity and fascination with the ancient Holy Land.