The spread of the Black Death in Europe. Wikimedia Commons.
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Between 1347 and the early 1350s, a devastating epidemic swept through Europe, killing a huge proportion of the population. The disease was primarily plague caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. Trade routes helped carry infection across regions, often involving fleas associated with rodents, although transmission patterns were complex. Medieval communities did not understand bacteria, and fear encouraged rumours and persecution, including attacks on Jewish communities. The enormous loss of life disrupted farming, trade, families and religious institutions. Labour shortages also changed economic relationships in parts of Europe.
