Impact of the Bubonic Plague

Mr. Kaufman discusses the decline of feudalism, focusing on the bubonic plague's role. The plague, originating in Central Asia, spread via the Silk Road due to poor hygiene. Modern medicine contrasts with historical practices like star charts and leeches. The plague's impact led to fewer workers, empowering survivors to demand rights, contributing to feudalism's decline. Socially, it caused persecution, especially of Jews, and questioned the authority of lords and the Church. Despite its devastation, the plague paved the way for a more equitable society.

What major event is discussed as a catalyst for the decline of feudalism in Europe?

• The Bubonic Plague

• The French Revolution

• The Industrial Revolution

• The Renaissance

Where do historians believe the Bubonic Plague originated?

• Central Asia

• Africa

• Europe

• North America

What was a key factor in the rapid spread of the plague in Europe?

• Clean living conditions

• Advanced medical practices

• Isolation of infected individuals

• Unsanitary living conditions

How is the modern response to diseases like the plague different from historical responses?

• Ignoring the disease

• Use of scientific methods

• Reliance on star charts

• Use of leeches

What was one of the societal impacts of the Bubonic Plague on the workforce?

• Workers lost all rights

• Workers gained more rights

• Decreased demand for labor

• Increased number of workers

What was a consequence of the reduced population on the feudal system?

• No change in the feudal system

• Increase in serfdom

• End of serfdom

• Strengthening of feudalism

What group was unjustly blamed for the spread of the plague?

• Farmers

• Merchants

• Nobles

• Jews

How did the plague affect people's trust in their leaders?

• Leaders were more respected

• Decreased trust

• Increased trust

• No change in trust

What was one positive long-term effect of the Bubonic Plague?

• Increase in religious power

• Reinforcement of feudalism

• Foundation for a more equitable society

• Strengthening of monarchies

What was a common misconception about the cause of the plague during medieval times?

• It was caused by poor hygiene

• It was spread by fleas on rats

• It was a punishment from God

• It was due to climate change