Key points In 1348 - 49, the Black Death swept across Europe, killing up to half of the population. There were two main types of plague: bubonic and pneumonic. Learn about the history, symptoms, and causes of the bubonic plague that killed millions of people in Europe in the 14th century. Find out how the plague doctor costume, the Nuremberg Chronicle, and the rats were involved in the Black Death . The Black Death of 1346 to 1353 remains the worst single epidemic in human history. Read on for key facts and figures about the plague that swept through Europe killing millions. Learn about the historical disease that caused widespread devastation in the past, transmitted by fleas or inhalation of respiratory droplets. Find out how to recognize the symptoms, such as fever, chills, and swollen lymph nodes, and how to prevent and treat the infection with antibiotics.
