Scientists have identified the worst year in history for humanity.

Determining the worst year in human history is a complex task, with various candidates vying for the title. While contemporary events are often highlighted, history offers even more horrifying examples, writes Greek Reporter.

In 1918, the Spanish flu infected one-third of the world's population, leading to 50-100 million deaths. Even earlier, from 1347 to 1351, the Black Death ravaged Europe, killing 30-50% of its population. However, many historians and scholars argue that the year 536 AD surpasses all others as the most catastrophic in human history.

A series of powerful volcanic eruptions, likely occurring in Iceland, released ash and debris into the atmosphere, plunging the Northern Hemisphere into darkness for 18 months. This period, known as the Cold Snap of 535-536, caused a sharp decline in global temperatures by 1.5-2.5°C, leading to crop failures and widespread famine in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

These events rendered the population vulnerable to diseases, culminating in the emergence of the bubonic plague—known as the Plague of Justinian—in 541 AD. This outbreak devastated the Eastern Roman Empire, wiping out between one-third and one-half of its population and hastening its decline.

Historian Michael McCormick from Harvard University described the year 536 as "the beginning of one of the worst periods for life." Byzantine historian Procopius recorded the horrific conditions, stating that "the sun emitted its light without brightness, like the moon, for an entire year." Even summer brought no relief: snow fell in China, and from 536 to 539, a mass famine was recorded in Ireland.

Further research led by Michael Sigl from the University of Bern identified volcanic activity as a periodic factor causing extreme cooling. Sigl's team found evidence of three catastrophic eruptions within a short timeframe—one in 535 or 536, another in 540, and a third in 547—each worsening the already dire conditions. These environmental catastrophes plunged Europe into an economic stagnation that lasted until 640 AD.

The events of 536 and their aftermath illustrate the fragility of human societies in the face of natural disasters. They also serve as a reminder of the interconnectedness of ecological, social, and economic systems, making the study of history essential for understanding and mitigating future challenges.

Additionally, we reported on the most significant discoveries of 2024 in Egypt. Archaeologists uncovered invaluable artifacts, tombs, and even evidence of some of the earliest surgical operations in the world.