Answer:The event that ravaged and killed a third of Europe's population in the 14th century is known as the Black Death. The Black Death, also referred to as the Bubonic Plague, was one of the deadliest pandemics in human history.
Here is a step-by-step explanation of the answer:
1. The Black Death was a devastating epidemic that occurred in the 14th century. It was caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which was primarily transmitted through fleas that infested rats.
2. The plague originated in Asia, specifically in the region of Central Asia, and spread to Europe through trade routes such as the Silk Road.
3. The first major outbreak of the Black Death in Europe began in 1347, when Italian merchant ships returned from the Black Sea and brought infected rats and fleas to the port of Messina in Sicily.
4. From Sicily, the disease quickly spread throughout Europe, affecting cities and rural areas alike. The close living conditions, lack of sanitation, and limited medical knowledge at the time contributed to its rapid spread.
5. The symptoms of the Black Death included high fever, swollen lymph nodes (known as buboes), and dark patches on the skin. The mortality rate was extremely high, with an estimated death toll of 25-50 million people, roughly a third of Europe's population at that time.
6. The impact of the Black Death was profound. It caused social and economic disruptions, as entire communities were decimated, and labor shortages led to significant changes in the feudal system. The loss of a large portion of the population also resulted in a decline in agricultural productivity and trade.
In summary, the Black Death, caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, was a devastating epidemic that swept through Europe in the 14th century. It led to the death of approximately one-third of Europe's population and had significant social and economic consequences.
Step-by-step explanation: