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1348:Black Plague The bubonic plague killed one third of Europes population between 1348 and1350, making it the most deadly epidemic since the sixth century. With no cure available, and no clue as to what caused the disease, many believed it was Gods punishment for sinful behavior. The plague had a massive effect on every aspect of society: serfs were freed, the labor force was decimated, and cultivation of food ceased. Doctors were forced to think of medicine in a new way, leading to the rise of the scientific theory. 1628: Harvey discovers circulatory system Dr. William Harvey, an English physician, made medical history when he published his discovery that blood, driven by the pumping of the heart, is constantly on the move throughout the human body. This disproved the previous medical wisdom that the hearts main purpose was to keep blood warm. 1882:Germs proven to cause disease In 1864, Louis Pasteur amazed the scientific community by proving that microorganisms live in the air. Years later, German scientist Robert Koch announced his findings that specific microorganisms can be linked to specific diseases in what is now known as the germ theory of disease. His discovery instantly improved physicians ability to diagnose and treat patients, as well as expanding human understanding of cleanliness as a means to prevent disease. 1928:Fleming discovers penicillin | 
