When did the Plague of Justinian start and end?
The outbreak began in 541 and persisted until 549. The disease spread from Egypt to Constantinople by 542 and reached Northern Europe and the Arabian Peninsula before ending.
Questions about Plague of Justinian
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Where did the Plague of Justinian originate according to genetic studies?
Genetic research indicates the pathogen originated in Central Asia near the Tian Shan mountain ranges. Ancient DNA samples link the strain to nomadic peoples like the Xiongnu who traveled across the Eurasian steppe.
How many people died during the peak of the Plague of Justinian in Constantinople?
Procopius recorded that the plague killed 10,000 people daily at its height in Constantinople. Some scholars estimate up to 40% of the city's inhabitants perished while other researchers argue these figures are exaggerated.
What economic impact did the Plague of Justinian have on the Byzantine Empire?
Justinian demanded annual taxes even from farmers who died during the epidemic causing severe financial strain. Grain prices rose because farmers could not tend crops while tax revenues declined despite huge spending on churches.
Did the Plague of Justinian cause widespread demographic decline in the Eastern Mediterranean?
Some researchers claim mortality was high locally but had minor long-term effects on population numbers. Archaeological evidence suggests no significant economic or demographic decline occurred in the 6th century Eastern Mediterranean.