Black Death

Outbreak of plague in Central Asia

Jan 1, 1346

The Black Death was a terrible plague that killed approximately 1.5 million people out of an estimated 4 million people between 1348 and 1350. It brought many changes to European society in particular. It spanned for approximately 5-6 years and had significant impact on the people of that time leading to numerous short and long term effects.

Plague reaches Constantinople

Jan 1, 1347

The plague Spread to Constantinople in early 1347 , then to what is now modern Turkey, Macedonia and Greece, and down into Syria, Iran and Iraq. Towards the end of 1347, it reached Egypt and the southern coast of the Mediterrranean Sea.

Plague reaches Scotland, Wales, Ireland, Scandinavia

Jan 1, 1348

During 1348, it spread further in Italy, France and Spain and before the end of 1348 it had reached Ireland and England. it had already spread through Egypt, Palestine and Syria.

Plague reaches England

Jan 1, 1350

In 1350, the plague killed about 30-40% of the population in England which estimated to be five-six million. Many people were thrown into mass graves. The oldest, youngest and poorest died first.

The Statue of Labourer

Jan 1, 1351

In England, 1851, the Statue of Labourer was introduced in an attempt to legislate to prevent labourers calling for higher wages as demand for their labour increased, but was largely unsuccessful. Peasants benefitted not only through higher wages but also through higher employment choices. Men and women no longer felt tied to the manor and sought other farm work and jobs.