Explain three impacts of the Black Death on the population of European and its’ trade routes.
I need some info/examples on the "Black Death"
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Consequences_of_the_Black_Death
http://www.historylearningsite.co.uk/black_death_of_1348_to_1350.htm
The Black Death, also known as the bubonic plague, was a devastating pandemic that hit Europe in the 14th century. It had significant impacts on the population of Europe as well as its trade routes. Here are three major impacts:
1. Population Decline: The Black Death caused a massive reduction in the population of Europe. It is estimated that between 25 to 50 percent of the population died during the epidemic. This drastic decrease in population had profound social and economic consequences. Entire communities were wiped out, leading to labor shortages in agriculture and other industries. This, in turn, resulted in a significant decline in production and economic activity across the continent.
Example: For instance, in France, it is estimated that the population decreased from about 17 million to 11 million during the outbreak of the Black Death. This loss of population had a long-lasting impact on the French economy and society.
2. Labor Shortages and Social Change: The massive loss of life due to the Black Death led to severe labor shortages across Europe. This created a shift in the balance of power between the feudal system of medieval Europe and the working class. As workers became scarce, they had greater bargaining power, leading to increased wages and improved working conditions for survivors. This shift eventually contributed to the decline of feudalism and the rise of a more structured market economy.
Example: In England, labor shortages caused by the Black Death led to the Peasants' Revolt of 1381. The uprising resulted from the discontent of the lower classes who demanded better living conditions and higher wages.
3. Trade Disruption and Change in Routes: The Black Death had a significant impact on trade routes in Europe. As the disease spread rapidly along trade routes, merchants encountered difficulties in transporting goods. Many traders and their caravans were decimated by the disease, leading to a disruption of trade networks. Additionally, the fear and panic caused by the pandemic led to restrictions and quarantine measures, causing further disruption to trade activities.
Example: The Silk Road, a major trade route connecting Europe and Asia, experienced a decline in commercial activity due to the Black Death. Trade along this route was severely affected as merchants and travelers abstained from using it, resulting in the emergence of new maritime trade routes.
To get more detailed information about the impacts of the Black Death on the population of Europe and its trade routes, I recommend exploring history books, academic articles, or reputable online sources specifically focused on this topic.