Impact of the Black Death on Society

The video discusses the Black Death's catastrophic impact on global population, particularly in Europe, where it killed about 50% of the population. Despite the tragedy, the plague led to economic shifts, with labor shortages increasing wages and opportunities for serfs. This shift contributed to the decline of feudalism and the rise of a prosperous middle class, eventually leading to the Industrial Revolution. The video also covers the gradual abolition of serfdom across Europe, highlighting the resistance from nobility and the eventual collapse of the feudal system.

What was the estimated global population loss due to the Black Death?

• 300 million

• 100 million

• 50 million

• 200 million

What was the impact of the Black Death on Europe's population centers?

• They became more isolated

• They were hit particularly hard

• They experienced significant population growth

• They remained unaffected

How did the labor shortage after the plague affect serfs?

• Serfs were able to demand higher wages

• Serfs were forced to move to cities

• Serfs lost their jobs

• Serfs had to work more hours for the same pay

Which of the following was NOT a consequence of the Black Death?

• A decrease in the cost of labor

• A shift in the supply-demand curve

• A decline in the feudal system

• An increase in serf wages

What was one of the main reasons for the decline of the feudal system after the Black Death?

• A decrease in land ownership

• The invention of new farming tools

• Increased wealth among freedmen

• A rise in agricultural production

Which country was among the first to abolish serfdom?

• Spain

• Scotland

• Russia

• France

What was a significant outcome of the emergence of a middle class in Europe?

• The start of the Industrial Revolution

• A decline in trade

• A return to feudalism

• A decrease in urbanization

Why did the nobility resist the changes brought by the rise of the middle class?

• They wanted to maintain their privileged positions

• They were against technological advancements

• They feared a decrease in agricultural output

• They wanted to increase taxes on serfs

Until when did serfdom exist in Russia?

• 1789

• 1861

• 1900

• 1950

What was a key factor in the success of nations that abolished serfdom early?

• Higher birth rates

• A thriving middle class

• Increased military power

• More agricultural land