Naturbegebenheiten und Epidemien im Reener Ländchen
Natural Disasters and Epidemics in the Land of Reghin

Main Issues and Research Desiderata at a Glance

Summary/Abstract: The written sources referring to these natural disasters are quite scarce for the region of Reghin. This study is based upon local chronicles of the town Reghinul-Săsesc (Sächsisch-Regen), upon the records made by orthodox priests on missals, upon printed historical sources as well as secondary literature. It is possible that many natural events that occured in this region have not been recorded or that the records have been lost. Most of the natural disasters, like floods or extreme temperatures, have influenced the economic life, but they have caused fewer human losses. The author also presents the reaction of the society to these disasters. Where epidemics are concerned, it was noticed that the poor population was more exposed to illnesses than the other population groups, especially on account of the hygienic conditions. The greatest problems were caused by plague (18th century) and cholera (19th century). Famine was brought about not only by climatic events, but also by military incursions. The action of the vulcanoes Laki and Tambora, which have caused food problems on wide areas, is also depicted. These problems have led to the creation of local grain stores. The positive consequences of natural disasters were a growing feeling of inter-community solidarity as well as the establishment of insurance companies. Regarding the people's perception of disasters, there are two perspectives: on the one hand the religious interpretation, which explains the events by celestial activity or divine punishment, on the other hand the rational interpretation of phenomena that emerged towards the end of the 18th century, with the Age of Enlightment.

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