SMRTR Science & EngineeringJan 22, 2026Nautilus

A Closer Look at an Elusive Ancient Plague

SMRTR summary

The Plague of Justinian, caused by the same bacterium as the Black Death, devastated the ancient Mediterranean from 541-750 A.D. Researchers analyzed skeletal remains from a mass grave in ancient Jerash, Jordan, discovering it contains people from diverse geographic origins. DNA and tooth enamel analysis revealed individuals from places like Sudan, Mozambique, and Eastern Europe buried together, providing unprecedented insight into ancient migration patterns and pandemic impacts on communities.

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