The Black Death
Religious Studies: KS3, topic 1.2.29
The Black Death
Jews were blamed by many Christians for the arrival of the bubonic plague, despite the Pope saying this was not the case.
The bubonic plague
- In the 14th century the bubonic plague known as the "Black Death" hit Europe.
- At that time, people had no idea of the causes of diseases and no idea that lack of hygiene caused the spread of bacteria.
- Although they didn't know what caused the disease, many Europeans blamed the Jews.
Christians blaming Jews for the plague
- Many Christians believed Jews were getting poison from the devil and pouring it down the wells or throwing it into the air.
- Pope Clement VI said the Jews were not doing this, but the masses didn't listen.
- The Church's message that the Jews killed "the son of God" but meant no harm to the Christian world contradicted each other.
Test yourself on The Black Death
By what other name was the bubonic plague known?