The exact number of children who died during the Children’s Crusade of 1212 is difficult to ascertain due to the lack of reliable historical records. Estimates suggest that thousands of children, possibly in the range of 20,000, took part in this ill-fated movement. Tragically, many of these young participants perished due to the harsh conditions they faced, including starvation, disease, and abuse during their journey.
The crusade, which was not a formal military campaign but rather a misguided march towards the Holy Land, ended in tragedy for most of the children involved. Many were sold into slavery or died before they could reach their destination. While the exact death toll remains uncertain, what is clear is that this event reflected the themes of desperation and exploitation that characterized the era.