Cautionary Tales of Medieval Living | The Great Famine of 1258 CE

The Great Famine of 1268 CE is a cautionary tale from medieval times. The U.S. government views climate change and global temperatures as irrelevant. History begs to differ!

In 1257 CE, a massive volcanic eruption occurred at Indonesia’s Mount Samalas. Vast amounts of ash and aerosols in the atmosphere lead to a dramatic drop in global temperatures. Colder temperatures and erratic weather caused widespread crop failures in Europe. England, 7800 miles from Mt. Samalas, was hard hit with extreme cold, persistent frost, and crop failures, which led to widespread food shortages. In addition, rising grain prices made food inaccessible to people experiencing poverty. Thousands flocked to cities like London for food, but the crisis worsened as supplies dwindled. The Great Famine of 1258 CE was one of the most severe food crises of the medieval period. Spitalfields burial site in London had 175 graves with over 10,500 skeletons, one quarter of the population of London. They buried many in large pits, rather than individual graves. 

Fifty-seven years later, the Great Famine of 1315–1317 affected most Northern European countries. Guess why this happened?

Extreme weather led to widespread crop failures, food shortages, and social unrest. The famine lasted at least two years, and in some places, until 1322. To survive, people abandoned their children, sold family members into slavery, and, when hungry enough, resorted to cannibalism. 

The Great Famine of 1315 was not a one-off event, nor one of those “thousand-year” occurrences. It contributed to and worsened the Black Plague of 1347-1351 CE.

History and nature repeat themselves. Right now, forty volcanoes worldwide are being monitored for potential eruptions. Thirty-eight are erupting, and twenty-five show signs of unrest. If we do not heed what science says, these events will be just as bad as those in 1257-58 and 1347-1351.

A more positive outcome in history is possible if U.S. leadership respects, funds, and follows scientific advice. Contrary to some beliefs, climate change has always existed and will continue to exist.