Justinian

Justinian Plague

Justinian Plague (juːˈstɪniən pleɪg) is a pandemic that occurred in the Byzantine Empire, including its capital Constantinople, during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in the 6th century AD. The plague is named after Emperor Justinian I, who was in power at the time and also contracted the disease but survived.

Etymology

The term "Justinian Plague" is derived from the name of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. The word "plague" comes from the Latin plaga meaning "stroke" or "wound".

Cause

The Justinian Plague was caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, the same agent responsible for the Bubonic Plague or "Black Death" in the 14th century. The bacterium is usually transmitted through the bite of infected fleas that live on small mammals, particularly rats.

Symptoms

Symptoms of the Justinian Plague include sudden onset of fever and chills, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches, followed by the appearance of painful, swollen lymph nodes (buboes), primarily in the groin, neck, and armpits.

Impact

The Justinian Plague had a profound impact on the Byzantine Empire, causing massive population decline and economic troubles. It also contributed to the decline of the Roman Empire.

Related Terms

• Pandemic
• Bubonic Plague
• Yersinia pestis
• Byzantine Empire
• Justinian I

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Justinian
• Wikipedia's article - Justinian

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