What was the Black Death?

The Black Death was a catastrophic epidemic that swept through Europe and parts of Asia in the 14th century, specifically from 1347 to 1351. It is primarily known as a deadly plague caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which is transmitted to humans through fleas that infest rats. The pandemic resulted in the deaths of millions, leading to significant demographic, economic, and societal changes throughout the affected regions.

Understanding the nature of the Black Death is vital, as it had profound consequences on European society, including labor shortages that contributed to the decline of the feudal system and shifts in economic power. The impact of the Black Death extended beyond immediate health crises, influencing art, religion, and thought during the late Middle Ages, which reflects the substantial reorientation of societal values and structures in its wake.