The Black Death
Driving Question: How did the Black Death spread so far and so quickly across Afro-Eurasia?
One of the most devastating pandemics in human history struck Afro-Eurasian communities in the fourteenth century. Spreading along trade routes, the Black Death decimated communities and reshaped economic systems and societal structures. This catastrophic plague left its mark on Afro-Eurasian populations and on the collective memory of communities for centuries to come.
- Learn about the causes and consequences of the Black Death and evaluate how this disease impacted human communities and networks.
- Use quick-sourcing skills to analyze primary and secondary sources to understand reactions to the Black Death.
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Guiding Questions
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Note: For more detailed directions on completing the three close reads below, refer to the Three Close Reads – Introduction activity.
Skim
Before you read, you should quickly skim the article, by looking at the headings of each section and the charts. Read the questions below as well, so you know what to look for when you read!
Key Ideas
- How did the success of the Mongol state help the Black Death spread?
- How many people are estimated to have died from the plague?
- What do gerbils have to do with plague?
- Where was the plague the worst? Why?
- How did the plague affect economies?
Evaluate
- We often think that exchange and trade between societies is always a good thing. Does this article change your opinion? How?
As you read the primary source excerpts in this collection, use the accompanying Quick-Sourcing Tool to guide your analysis.
