1. The Effects of the Crusades
The Crusades weakened the feudal system, because so many lords and knights died. They also helped to stimulate trade between Europe and Southwest Asia, because the Crusaders brought back goods like spices, fruit, and cloth to Europe and the citizens there wanted more. They also left a legacy of bitterness and hatred between Muslims, Christians, and Jews.

2. The Black Death
The Bubonic Plague killed about 1/3-1/2 of the European population between
It started in Asia and spread from east to west with the newly established trade routes. The disease was carried by infected fleas that lived on rats. The Jews were blamed instead and accused of poisoning the wells.

3. The Economic effects of the Plague
Overall population of Europe decreased, leading to the decrease in trade. This led to the inflation of prices because the goods were now scarce.
Farms were also abandoned, leading to the decline of the manor system. The serfs of these declining manors revolted and fled.

4. The Effects of the Plague on the Church
The Church lost prestige when the clergy’s prayers to end the plague didn’t work. The clergy abandoned the people because they didn’t want to get the plague. Priests refused to conduct masses or give last rites to those suffering from the plague

5. The Effects of the Plague on the People
As a result, people became more pessimistic about life. Art and literature of the time reflected the people’s awareness of death. People also became self-indulgent – they figured that if they were going to die, they might as well enjoy themselves while they still could.