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The past, present and future of the bubonic plague - Sharon N. DeWitte

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The bubonic plague, which killed around 1/5 of the world’s population in the 14th century, is still around today -- but it now claims only a few thousand lives each year. How did that number shrink so drastically? Sharon N. DeWitte investigates the causes and effects of the black death and explains how knowing this information can help us prepare for any future outbreaks of the disease.

What has DNA analysis revealed about the Black Death?

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About TED-Ed Animations

TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »

Meet The Creators

  • Educator Sharon N. DeWitte
  • Director Steff Lee
  • Animator Jack Ross
  • Script Editor Alex Gendler
  • Narrator Michelle Snow

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