Bubonic plague.
The medieval term for bubonic plague, a devastating disease that claimed the lives of approximately 50 percent of its victims during past epidemics, was “Black Death.” This name stemmed from a notable characteristic of the illness, which involved bleeding beneath the skin, leading to the formation of bluish-black bruises. The term “Black Death” vividly describes the visual impact of the disease and its association with widespread suffering and mortality. The bubonic plague remains a significant historical event that continues to be studied for its impact on society and the development of public health measures.