Krakatoa: The Volcanic Eruption That Changed The Course Of History | Catastrophe | Timeline
Timeline - World History DocumentariesSummary
A significant volcanic eruption in 535 AD, likely from Krakatoa, is believed to have triggered a global climatic catastrophe that led to widespread drought, famine, and political upheaval. Historian David Keyes explores the eruption's impact, which generated ash clouds that blocked sunlight, resulting in a "nuclear winter" effect. This climatic shift caused agricultural failures and contributed to the spread of diseases, including the bubonic plague, which devastated the Roman Empire and other civilizations.
Keyes connects the eruption's aftermath to the decline of the Avars, a powerful tribe in Mongolia, whose horse-based economy faltered due to the harsh conditions. This vulnerability allowed the Turks to conquer them, leading to the Avars' migration into Europe, where they played a crucial role in destabilizing the Roman Empire. The episode also examines the decline of the major city of Teotihuacan in Mexico, linking its fall to the same climatic disruptions that affected civilizations worldwide.
The discussion extends to the emergence of new political entities and religions, including the rise of Islam, which coincided with the societal upheaval caused by the eruption. Keyes emphasizes the long-term consequences of natural disasters on human history, warning that similar catastrophic events could have profound effects on modern civilization, potentially leading to resource conflicts and societal collapse.
Show Notes
A devastating volcanic eruption in A.D. 535 leads to the emergence of new nations and religions.Written records from China, Italy, Palestine and many other countries suggest a huge catastrophe blighted the world in 536AD. But the cause of it has been uncertain.Was it a comet? An asteroid? A volcano? Archaeologist David Keys reveals the latter is to blame for the Dark Ages of famine and plague that shaped the world order of today. It's like Netflix for history... Sign up to History Hit to start watching now https://bit.ly/45CPh5uYou can find more from us on:https://www.facebook.com/timelineWHhttps://www.instagram.com/timelineWHThis channel is part of the Little Dot Studios Network. Any queries, please contact [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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