Plague of Justinian

The Plague of Justinian was a deadly pandemic that struck the Byzantine Empire in the 6th century, starting around 541 AD. Named after Emperor Justinian I, it is believed to be caused by the same bacterium, Yersinia pestis, that later caused the Black Death in the 14th century. The plague spread rapidly, resulting in millions of deaths and significant social and economic disruption. It weakened the Byzantine Empire, impacting its ability to defend against invaders and contributing to the decline of its power. The outbreak is considered one of the first major pandemics in recorded history.