1. What was the scientific name of the bacterium that caused the Black Death?

Question

2. List three symptoms of the bubonic plague.

3. Approximately what percentage of Europe's population died during the black death?

4. Form a hypothesis about how improved transportation and trade routes might have affected the spread of the disease.

5. Develop a hypothesis about why the Little Ice Age, which began in the 14th century, might have contributed to the spread of severity of the black death.

6. Child mortality was very high in medieval Europe, with perhaps 50% of children dying before age 5. Compare this to modern child mortality rates. What factors might account for the difference?

Answer 1

1. The scientific name of the bacterium that caused the Black Death is Yersinia pestis.

2. Three symptoms of the bubonic plague include:

   • Swollen and painful lymph nodes (buboes)
   • Fever and chills
   • Fatigue and weakness

3. Approximately 30% to 60% of Europe's population died during the Black Death, with estimates suggesting that around 25 million people perished, reducing the population from an estimated 75-100 million.

4. Hypothesis: Improved transportation and trade routes during the medieval period may have facilitated the rapid spread of the Black Death by allowing infected individuals and fleas to travel more quickly and broadly across regions. The movement of goods, travelers, and even animals likely inadvertently introduced the bacterium to new areas, increasing the potential for outbreaks as the disease spread from one populated area to another.

5. Hypothesis: The Little Ice Age, beginning in the 14th century, may have contributed to the severity of the Black Death by disrupting agricultural practices and leading to food shortages. The resulting malnutrition and weakened immune systems among the population would have made individuals more susceptible to infections, including the bubonic plague. Additionally, the colder climate could have affected rodent populations, possibly bringing them into closer contact with human populations, which might have facilitated the transmission of Yersinia pestis.

6. In medieval Europe, child mortality rates were extremely high, with estimates of about 50% of children dying before age 5. In contrast, as of recent times, global child mortality rates have significantly decreased due to various factors, such as improved health care, better nutrition, advances in medical science (including vaccinations), access to clean water, and improved sanitation. Additionally, greater awareness of hygiene practices and maternal health have contributed to healthier pregnancies and prenatal care, further reducing child mortality rates.