How many people have died from Yersinia pestis?

Yersinia pestis is the bacterium that causes the plague, a bacterial infection that has caused several pandemics throughout human history. The estimates for the exact number of deaths caused by the plague vary, but historical accounts and scientific studies suggest that the bacterium has caused millions of deaths over the centuries. Here are a few notable instances of pandemics caused by Yersinia pestis:

1. Justinian's Plague: The Justinian's Plague, which occurred during the 6th century AD, is believed to have originated in the Eastern Roman Empire (Byzantine Empire). It spread throughout Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, resulting in an estimated death toll of 25 million to 50 million people.

2. Black Death: The Black Death, or the second plague pandemic, occurred in the 14th century AD and is considered one of the deadliest pandemics in human history. It started in Central Asia and quickly spread across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Estimates suggest that the Black Death killed between 75 million to 200 million people, possibly wiping out up to 60% of Europe's population.

3. Modern Plagues: In the 19th and 20th centuries, there were several outbreaks of Yersinia pestis in different parts of the world. The most well-known of these is the third plague pandemic, which began in China in the late 19th century and spread to various countries, including India, Europe, and the Americas. The exact death toll from this pandemic is uncertain but is estimated to be in the millions.

It's important to note that these numbers are just estimates, and there is considerable uncertainty surrounding the exact death toll caused by Yersinia pestis throughout history. However, it is evident that the bacterium has been responsible for immense human suffering and has had a profound impact on societies, economies, and cultures around the world.