Between 1347 and 1351 a great epidemic known as the Black Death ravaged Europe. This pandemic took a proportionately greater toll of life than any other known epidemic or war up to that time. The Black Death is widely believed to have been the result of plague that was caused by infection with the bacterium Yersinia pestis. Most scientists think that this bacterium was first passed from infected rodents to humans through the bite of fleas. Then it spread quickly from one person to another.
The Black Death was an infamous plague causing an estimated 20 million deaths in Europe. Its spread and impact is disputed, but it does give an insight into a medieval way of life.
Videos
Books
When Plague Strikes
by
James Cross Giblin; David Frampton (Illustrator)
Here are the fascinating stories of three of the most serious & damaging diseases of all time: the Black Death, smallpox, & AIDS. It addresses the difference Pasteur's research made in fighting disease & describes today's work of the Pasteur Institute. Bibliography & index.
Call Number: 614.4 GIB
ISBN: 9780060258641
Publication Date: 1995
Life During the Black Death
by
John M. Dunn
The Black Death, the greatest natural disaster ever inflicted upon humanity, killed 25 million people in Europe during the fourteenth century and shattered medieval life forever. Shocked survivors struggled to pick up the pieces and build a new world.
Call Number: 940.1 DUN
ISBN: 1560065427
Publication Date: 1999
Pox, Pus and Plague
by
John Townsend
Read this history of disease and infection and find out what part pox, pus, and plague played in the spread and treatment of illness. Learn why British sailors were called limeys, and which disease turns the skin bright yellow. Discover why disease spread quickly. Read these real-life stories and fascinating news reports to learn how hospitals and medical treatment has changed throughout the years. Eye-catching photographs help you visualize medical treatment and conditions in this painful history of medicine book.
Call Number: 616.01 TOW
ISBN: 9781410913333
Publication Date: 2005
BrainPop
The Danger of Disease
The video below deals with all types of disease that originated around medieval times, not limited to the black death. Content may be mature for sensitive groups.