Europe was faring well up until the great famine of 1315-1317. There were big changes in the weather which shortened the growing seasons and torrential rains damaged crops. Much of Europe was becoming overpopulated at this time as well. Any land that could be farmed was being farmed and there simply was not enough food to go around for everyone. Meanwhile, people began to migrate from rural areas to the more urban areas in hopes of finding better living conditions.
In addition to famine and a boom in population, Europe also had to face the bubonic plague. The plague gained its foothold in Europe in 1347 when it was brought on-land by Genocese merchants coming from Caffa. The infected sailors from Caffa landed in Sicily, some in Genoa
In addition to famine and a boom in population, Europe also had to face the bubonic plague. The plague gained its foothold in Europe in 1347 when it was brought on-land by Genocese merchants coming from Caffa. The infected sailors from Caffa landed in Sicily, some in Genoa