The Black Death (the “Black Plague”) hit Europe between 1347 and 1351, with the classic, most devastating outbreak usually dated 1347–1352.

Quick Scoop: Key Dates

  • First major European outbreak: 1347, arriving via Mediterranean ports such as Sicily and Italian coastal cities.
  • Peak devastation across Europe: roughly 1348–1351, when it swept through Italy, France, Spain, England, Central and Northern Europe.
  • Usual date range historians give: 1347–1351 or 1347–1352 for the main pandemic.
  • Recurring waves: further outbreaks kept returning in Europe through the later 14th century and into the 1600s (for example, a major wave in 1665 in England).

So if you just need a simple answer to “when did the Black Plague happen,” the commonly accepted window is mid‑14th century, especially 1347–1351.

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