Medieval Syphilis Epidemic in Europe

In the late 1400s, Europe was ravaged by a deadly epidemic characterized by fevers, skin rashes, and disfigurement. The spread of the infection was linked to soldiers and sex workers following warring rulers, leading to the belief that syphilis originated from different nations. The historical narrative often blamed Christopher Columbus for introducing syphilis to Europe, but recent DNA evidence suggests the disease was present in Europe before his voyages, challenging established beliefs. This discovery sheds new light on the origin and spread of syphilis.