Change is a primary aspect that is constant in the history of human beings. Variations provide people with high and low moments in life. That was the situation in the history of Europe. One of the most devastating epidemics that struck the continent killing almost two-thirds of the population in the mid-14th century was the Black Plague. The Mongol conquests in the 15th century also brought the despair and loss of many lives (Bonnie, Marc, Richard, and Kris, 2012, 443). This essay looks at how Europe managed to revive itself despite all the calamities that took place.
The Mongol attacks had a positive side since they raised an upsurge of goods and people between Europe and Asia. The escapades of Marco Polo are reflections of the crossroads trade that took place between the two continents. The Crusaders who increased the religious and political tensions between Muslims and Christians also had their benefits. They enhanced interactions between Asia and Europe (Bonnie, Marc, Richard, and Kris, 2012, 443). The collapse of the Mongol empire gave the Europeans ample authority over the trade along the crossroads.
Trade continued to thrive amidst of all the challenges and obstacles that hampered Europe. It acted as the hopeful alternative for development that kept them going. The Crusaders power and force allowed Europe to expand its territory through the capture of cities such as Jerusalem. The Crusaders aimed to restore civilization and Christianity across Asia and to expand the borders of Eastern Europe. The movement played a fundamental role in the enactment of Europe as a region for Christian individuals that aimed to exert supreme rule over other nations (Bonnie, Marc, Richard, and Kris, 2012, 470). The Crusaders armies captured various strongholds that enable the continent to spring back to economic, political, and social success.
Reference
Bonnie G. S., Marc Van De M., Richard von G., and Kris L. (2012). Crossroads and Cultures, Volume I: To 1450: A History of the World's Peoples. Bedford/St. Martin's.
