A disaster is an event usually associated with widespread destruction, loss of life, economic failure and suffering. Earthquakes, floods, violent weather, or forest fires are natural disasters and are typically seen as outside human control. War, economic failure, religious or ethnic persecution are disasters caused by humans. The natural and human worlds often combine in creating a disaster: plagues introduced to an unprotected population, dense housing in earthquake or flood zones. Disasters represent an enormous historical influence, shaping world culture, economic and political systems. Fires and plagues have toppled empires and paved the way for new regimes and societies.
This web site was conceived as part of an undergraduate introduction to history course. It is the capstone class for lower division course work. Students were assigned to research a disaster that they deemed historically important.
Questions, comments, or criticisms, please email rbergin@claven.idbsu.edu