We Are History The Black Death
Feb 17, 2020
Delve into the chaos of the Black Death, which wiped out half of Europe and ushered in the Renaissance. Hear how the plague spread from marmots to humans via rats and catapulted corpses during sieges. Discover the bizarre medieval beliefs about bad air, the rise of flagellants, and the brutal scapegoating of marginalized groups. Learn how this tragedy led to the fall of serfdom, changes in land use, and even a revival of wildlife in abandoned villages. Explore the cultural impacts that shaped the modern age amid the turmoil.
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Black Death As A Turning Point
- The Black Death was an unparalleled catastrophe that killed around 40–50% of Europe and reshaped society.
- Jon O'Farrell argues 1349 marks a key turning point toward the modern age by disrupting medieval structures.
How The Plague Reached Europe
- Jon describes the plague origin story: fleas on Mongolian marmots transferred to black rats and spread along the Silk Road.
- He recounts the siege of Kaffa where Mongols catapulted infected corpses into the city as early biological warfare.
Symptoms And Social Stigma
- The bubonic plague produced painful buboes, fever, vomiting and rapid death within days for many victims.
- Jon notes social stigma made families hide the sick, worsening spread and isolation.
