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The Great Plague of London in 1665

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The Great Plague of London in 1665 was a devastating epidemic that claimed thousands of lives. Caused by Yersinia pestis, it spread rapidly due to poor sanitation and overcrowding. Misconceptions of the time led to ineffective remedies and preventive measures. Government interventions included isolation and sanitation efforts, which, along with the Great Fire of London, eventually led to improved public health policies.

The Great Plague of London: A Historical Catastrophe

The year 1665 marked a tragic chapter in London's history with the advent of the Great Plague, a catastrophic epidemic that claimed the lives of an estimated 100,000 individuals, nearly a quarter of the city's inhabitants. The plague was caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which was transmitted to humans through the bite of infected fleas carried by rodents, particularly rats. The dense urban population and poor sanitation facilitated the rapid spread of the disease.
17th-century London cobblestone street with timber-framed buildings, a plague doctor, ill individuals, and a cart carrying bodies.

Factors Contributing to the Spread of the Great Plague

The spread of the Great Plague was significantly influenced by the unsanitary conditions of 17th-century London. Overcrowded living spaces, filthy streets, and the lack of waste management provided an ideal environment for rats and fleas to thrive. Domestic animals, including cats and dogs, also harbored the fleas that carried the plague. The movement of rats aboard ships contributed to the spread of the disease both within the city and to other areas.

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Great Plague of London death toll

Approx. 100,000 deaths, nearly 25% of London's population.

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Great Plague transmission method

Yersinia pestis bacterium spread by flea bites from infected rodents.

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The presence of rats and fleas was bolstered by ______ living quarters, unclean streets, and poor ______ management in the city.

overcrowded

waste

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