As per the findings from studies published by the press office of Cambridge University, one of the principal elements in the spread of the plague during the fourteenth century was global climate shifts, induced by potent volcanic eruptions.
Scientists Martin Bauch and Ulf Büntgen reached the deduction that volcano outbursts occurring in 1345 caused a notable drop in temperature across the European area. This, in turn, resulted in diminished crop yields and the emergence of famine threats among the populace.
The researchers gave special attention to examining the alterations taking place in Europe just before the “Black Death” epidemic. These were viewed through the lens of food security and instances of widespread starvation.
The Italian trade republics, encompassing Venice and Genoa, were obliged to seek substitute supplies of grain crops to secure sustenance for the people. Their selection settled upon the ports of the Golden Horde situated in the Black Sea region. According to experts, it was along these trade routes that the plague pathogen penetrated European territory.
The initial symptoms of the illness in Venice were documented around two months following the arrival of vessels transporting grain from the Horde’s territories. A similar scenario was observed in other port locales, such as Marseille and Palma de Mallorca, where grain from the Black Sea vicinity was also imported. In parts of Italy not reliant on these shipments, the appearance of the plague occurred considerably later.
It was previously reported that trumpet shells dating back approximately 6000 years were discovered in Spain. Read more about this in the Public News Service article.
About the Author
