Describe what the roles and influence of peasants during the black death.
During the Black Death, peasants played a crucial role in the economy and society, as the majority of the population at the time were peasants. As the plague spread, many peasants were forced to continue working the land in order to provide food for their communities, even as their numbers dwindled due to the high mortality rate.
The Black Death also had a significant impact on the social structure of the time, as the scarcity of labor caused by the high death toll led to increased demand for workers. This led to peasants having more bargaining power and opportunities for better wages and working conditions. Some peasants were even able to acquire land and move up the social ladder as a result of the changing dynamics caused by the plague.
Additionally, the devastation caused by the Black Death had a profound influence on the mindset of peasants, as they grappled with the fear and uncertainty that came with the sudden loss of so many lives. Many turned to religion for solace and explanation, while others sought out scapegoats to blame for the disaster.
Overall, the Black Death drastically altered the roles and influence of peasants during this time, leading to shifts in power dynamics and opportunities for social mobility, while also instilling a sense of fear and uncertainty in the minds of those who survived.