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Rattus Rattus, the Black Rat

Black Death

Rattus Rattus, the Black Rat

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Photo Galleries (1)

  • Pests That Changed History
    Pests That Changed History

    9 Photos

    From the rats that unleashed the Black Plague on 14th-century Europe to the mosquitoes that continue to infect millions with malaria each year, these pesky creatures have played a decisive role in shaping human history.

    (9 Photos)

Videos (2)

  • Coroner's Report: Plague
    Coroner's Report: Plague

    Video Clip (2:37)

    In the 14th century, a devastating plague known as the Black Death claimed an estimated 75 million lives. How did the people who contracted it know their luck had run out?

    Video Clip (2:37)
  • The Black Death Begins
    The Black Death Begins

    Video Clip (3:32)

    Abundant trade and shipping spread the Black Death rapidly through Asia and Europe.

    Video Clip (3:32)

Speeches & Audio (3)

  • George W. Bush on the Space Shuttle Columbia Disaster
    George W. Bush on the Space Shuttle Columbia Disaster

    Audio Clip (3:15)

    On February 1, 2003, the space shuttle Columbia was 16 minutes away from touchdown after completing its 28th mission when a damaged heat protection tile caused the shuttle to incinerate, killing all seven crew members. Later that day, President George W. Bush informs the nation about the terrible disaster.

    Audio Clip (3:15)
  • Cause of Challenger Disaster Revealed
    Cause of Challenger Disaster Revealed

    Audio Clip (0:44)

    William P. Rogers, head of the special commission appointed by President Ronald Reagan to investigate the January 28, 1986, explosion of the space shuttle Challenger, reports his findings at a press conference on June 9, 1986.

    Audio Clip (0:44)
  • Columbia Space Shuttle Disaster
    Columbia Space Shuttle Disaster

    Audio Clip (0:31)

    On February 1, 2003, the space shuttle Columbia was returning from its 28th mission when, 16 minutes to touchdown, the shuttle incinerated and broke apart over Texas. Communication between the Columbia crew and Mission Control captures the last moments of the flight.

    Audio Clip (0:31)

Read More about Black Death

The Black Death killed almost one-third of Europe's population in the late 1340s and early 1350s.

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