The Black Death pandemic in the 14th century killed an estimated 30-60% of Europe's population. It originated in China and spread along trade routes, first reaching Europe in Sicily in 1347 through infected ships from Genoa. Symptoms varied but included respiratory issues, swollen lymph nodes, vomiting blood, and dark spots caused by bleeding under the skin. Around 170 million people in Europe and Asia ultimately died from the disease, with major social, economic, and religious impacts.

1. Will Reid
Nick Tabak

2. History
 The Black Death is the worst pandemic
in history, estimated to have killed
between 30-60 percent of Europe’s
population.
 Started with the outbreak of Yersinia
Pestis in China, which spread along the
silk road into the Mediterranean and
Europe.
 The first recorded outbreak in Europe
was in Messina, Sicily.

3. Europe
 First reached Sicily in October 1347.
 Carried by twelve boats from Genoa.
 After reaching Marseilles, Italy, it spread
to the rest of Europe.

4. Middle East
 Entered the region from southern Russia.
 Reached Alexandria, Egypt in 1347
 Reached Antioch in 1348
 Mecca in 1349.
 In 1351, Yemen experienced an outbreak
of the plague. This coincided with the
return of King Mujahid of Yemen from
imprisonment in Cairo. His party may have
brought the disease with them from Egypt.

5. Symptoms
 Accounts of symptoms are largely
varied, some experienced respiratory
problems, others had buboes, large,
raised tumors filled with pus and blood.
 Some experienced vomiting of blood.
 Some experienced black spots, caused
by sub-epidermal bleeding.
 Death Occurred within 2-7 days.

6. Consequences
 Death of close to 170 million people in
Europe and Asia.
 Large social and economic impacts.
 Religious and social upheaval.

7. Sources
 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Death