The most devastating initial wave of the Black Plague, often referred to as the Great Mortality, swept across Europe from 1347 to 1351, lasting approximately five years. During this period, the plague's ability to cover vast European territory so swiftly was remarkable, with some experts noting that no other human epidemic, not even the 1918 influenza, has demonstrated such a rapid propensity for widespread coverage.
However, defining how long the Black Plague "lasted" requires distinguishing between this initial, most virulent pandemic and the centuries of recurrent outbreaks that followed.
The Initial Pandemic: The Great Mortality (1347-1351)
The first and most impactful wave of the Black Death emerged in Central Asia and spread rapidly along trade routes, reaching Europe in the late 1340s.
- 1347: The plague reached Sicily via Genoese trading ships.
- 1348: It spread throughout Italy, France, Spain, and North Africa, reaching England.
- 1349: It ravaged Northern Europe, including Germany and Scandinavia.
- 1350-1351: The pandemic began to subside in many areas, though some regions experienced lingering effects into 1351.
This five-year period saw an unprecedented mortality rate, wiping out an estimated 30% to 50% of Europe's population.
A Centuries-Long Threat: Subsequent Outbreaks
While the initial wave concluded by 1351, the Black Death did not disappear. The bacterium Yersinia pestis became endemic in Europe, leading to numerous subsequent outbreaks for centuries. These recurring epidemics, though often localized and less devastating than the first wave, continued to impact populations and societies.
Key Recurrences:
- 1361–1363 (Pestilence of the Children): Notably affected children and young adults.
- 1374–1375: Another significant European outbreak.
- 1390: Further spread throughout the continent.
The plague continued to reappear with varying intensity every few decades until the 18th or even early 19th century in some regions. Notable later outbreaks include:
- Italian Plague of 1629–1631: Devastated parts of Italy.
- Great Plague of London (1665–1666): One of the last major outbreaks in England.
- Great Plague of Marseille (1720–1722): The last major plague outbreak in Western Europe.
Understanding "How Long"
Therefore, the answer to "How long did the Black Plague last?" depends on the context:
| Interpretation | Duration/Period | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Pandemic | ~5 years (1347-1351) | The most widespread and deadly phase, characterized by its rapid and extensive coverage across Europe. |
| Recurrent Outbreaks | ~400+ years (mid-14th to early 19th century) | The period during which Yersinia pestis remained endemic in Europe, causing repeated, though often more localized, epidemics. This is known as the Second Plague Pandemic. |
The Black Plague profoundly reshaped European society, economy, and culture, and its periodic return reinforced its long-lasting impact. For more detailed information on the Black Death, you can explore resources like the World Health Organization (WHO) or Britannica.
