19497 - Political Implications of the Plague: Survivors, Descendants, and the Iberian Peninsula

Course Overview

Through a film, lecture and discussion, we’ll explore the political ramifications of the Bubonic Plague in Europe. As the Black Death wiped out over 30% of the population, it drastically shifted power dynamics, eroded feudal systems, and led to labor shortages, weakening the authority of monarchs and church leaders. We’ll examine how these upheavals sparked revolts, redefined social hierarchies, and contributed to the rise of centralized governments. We’ll also delve into the long-term effects on economics, religion, and cultural norms, shaping the Western world for centuries. Join us as we unravel the far-reaching political consequences of the plague.