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1347
The Bubonic Plague
Also known as the Black Death, would notably kill an estimated 25-50% of the European population in its first wave (lasting until 1351), as well as countless more in ensuing epidemics. Additionally, would be responsible for accelerating the end of feudalism, with the value of labour increasing as the peasantry died in droves. (Pieter Bruegel the Elder, Triumph of Death, c. 1562, Museo del Prado, Madrid.) -
Europe "exports" smallpox to the Americas
Smallpox would prove to be absolutely devastating to indigenous populations, particularly in the Americas, and would serve to accelerate the pace of European colonization. In later years, smallpox would also serve as an early example of anti-vaccination rhetoric, as with this satirical depiction of early vaccination, in which inoculation samples taken from cows would lead to bovines literally bursting out of people (James Gillray, Wellcome Collection) -
Tuberculosis, the "Romantic" Disease
Although existing well before, the Industrial Revolution and ensuing urbanization of Europe would prove to be a boon for the spread of Tuberculosis. Often lumped together with alcoholism and syphilis as the three diseases associated with modern life, tuberculosis would also have a cultural connotation of artistic qualities in its victims. Depicted here is Sick Child, in which Edvard Munch sits next to his sister, who herself was afflicted with the disease (Edvard Munch, Albertina Museum, 1907). -
The Spanish Flu Continues the Killing of the Great War
The Great War would serve as kindling for the Spanish Flu epidemic, as the majority of the continent's population was malnourished and weak. While this pandemic would cause much suffering, it would also serve as the foundation for our modern public health services, as well as for the World Health Organization. Schiele, the author of this painting, depicts himself, his wife, and his unborn child. They died before the painting was complete. (Egon Schiele, The Family, 1918, Belvedere, Vienna)