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Black Death In The Middle Ages Essay

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The economic impact of this contagious disease which spread across Europe during the Middle Ages affected the entire continent. It is, however, extremely difficult to gather the data needed to calculate the economic consequences of these infections. An analysis of various medieval infectious diseases can add to enlightening the possible economic and cultural consequences of plagues. The outcome of every epidemic is a systematic study and its effects are not always the same. However, some regularity does exist in these events. Although very difficult, information following the impact of high mortality on early farming economies could be estimated. The effect of these outbreaks is highlighted through the observation of some familiar developments in the economy of medieval Europe. It is estimated that in the 14th century 25 million people died as a result of Black Death (Martin, 2008). In simple economic perspective, we understand that productivity diminishes as a result of a shortage of labor force. The Black Death destroyed people but not the capital or resources available to have a fertile economy. As a result of a shortage of workers’ wages rose in agriculture immediately following the end of the plague and then slowly declined as the population rebounded (Martin, 2008). Contact with animals has been the cause of the worst contagious diseases that has affected humans in past societies. Resistant strains of plague, smallpox, influenza, and others were triggered by infections which first affected domestic animals. Various non-domestic species which also came in contact with humans such as mice, fleas or lice …show more content…

This would be one of the most important events of the era. Death came to many while others prospered. Seemingly overnight the population was erased by half. Some believed this was the wrath of God while others blamed people for bringing the plague to

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