The Plague: Causes and Effects
Learning Objective
I can describe the causes and effects of the plague.
Key Concepts
Plague is caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis and mainly affects rodents, spreading via insects.
Three factors that contributed to the spread of plague pandemics were international trade, urbanization, and a lack of medical knowledge.
The discovery of the bacteria behind the plague outbreaks in 1894 led to advancements in microbiology, medicine, urban planning, and sanitation methods.
Practice Questions
This lesson includes 3 practice questions to reinforce learning.
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1. Name three factors that contributed to the spread of plague pandemics throughout history.
2. Which of the following is NOT mentioned in the video as a consequence of the plague?
3. Explain how the discovery of the bacteria responsible for the plague ultimately helped to prevent future pandemics.
Educational Video
Plague 101 | National Geographic
National Geographic