JOURNAL ARTICLE

Medieval volcano may have indirectly sparked Europe's Black Death: Crop failures caused by eruptions possibly forced grain imports from plague-ridden regions.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2025. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Curry, Andrew 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses the role of climate change, specifically volcanic eruptions, in the spread of the Black Death in Europe during the 14th century. Researchers suggest that a series of eruptions caused a significant cooling period, leading to crop failures in the Mediterranean and forcing Italian cities to import grain from the plague-affected Black Sea region. This trade not only brought wheat but also infected fleas carrying the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which contributed to the rapid spread of the pandemic. The findings highlight the interconnectedness of climate, trade, and disease in historical contexts. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2025/12, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Botany
  • Publication Date:2025
  • Accession Number:189880198
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