The Black Death Flashcards
(40 cards)
What was the Black Death?
It was a deadly plague that killed millions in the 14th century.
When did the Black Death reach England?
1348
What bacteria caused the Black Death?
Yersinia pestis.
How was the Black Death spread?
By fleas living on rats.
What are buboes?
Painful swellings on the skin, a symptom of the plague.
What are the three forms of the Black Death?
Bubonic, pneumonic, and septicaemic.
What were common symptoms of bubonic plague?
Fever, chills, vomiting, and buboes.
How did people think the plague was caused?
God’s punishment, bad air (miasma), or alignment of planets.
What is miasma?
A theory that bad air causes disease.
What is a pandemic?
A disease that spreads across many countries.
How many people died in Europe due to the Black Death?
About 25 million.
How did people try to avoid catching the plague?
Burning herbs, carrying flowers, avoiding infected people.
What did plague doctors wear?
Long robes, gloves, and bird-like masks with herbs.
What is a flagellant?
Someone who whipped themselves to show repentance.
What is a plague pit?
A mass grave for plague victims.
How did the Black Death affect towns and cities?
Populations dropped and trade declined.
What happened to food prices during the plague?
They increased due to shortages.
What was the role of religion during the Black Death?
Many turned to God; others lost faith.
What happened to the feudal system after the plague?
It weakened due to fewer workers.
Why were peasants in a better position after the plague?
They could demand higher wages.
What is a primary source?
Evidence created at the time of an event.
What is a secondary source?
Information created after the event using primary sources.
Why were Jews blamed for the Black Death in parts of Europe?
They were scapegoated and falsely accused of poisoning wells.
What did people use to “cure” the plague?
Herbs, bloodletting, and charms.
