Final answer:
Syphilis is a contagious disease that originated in Europe in the late 15th century and spread through military campaigns and sea voyages. It is caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum and can be transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to child during pregnancy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Syphilis is a contagious disease that originated in Europe in the late 15th century. It was brought to Europe by Charles VIII of France and spread to other regions through military campaigns and sea voyages. The disease was initially called the 'Great Pox' and later the 'French Pox' or 'Italian Pox' depending on the political climate at the time. Syphilis is caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum and can be transmitted through sexual contact or from mother to child during pregnancy.