Japanese smallpox epidemic (735–737)

The Japanese smallpox epidemic of 735–737 was one of the most devastating pandemics in Japan’s history, causing widespread mortality and…

By Staff , in History of Disorders , at November 24, 2024 Tags: health, medicine

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The Japanese smallpox epidemic of 735–737 was one of the most devastating pandemics in Japan’s history, causing widespread mortality and significant social and economic upheaval. This epidemic, fueled by the introduction of smallpox into a population with no prior immunity, had profound effects on the country’s political, economic, and demographic structure.

Overview of the Epidemic
Introduction of Smallpox:
Smallpox was introduced to Japan via international trade and diplomatic missions.
Historical records suggest the disease may have been brought to Japan by an envoy returning from Baekje (a Korean kingdom) or Tang China in 735 CE.

Spread of the Epidemic:
The disease spread rapidly due to dense population centers and limited understanding of disease prevention.
It began in northern Kyushu and quickly spread throughout the Japanese archipelago, devastating major regions.

Duration:
The epidemic lasted approximately three years, from 735 to 737 CE.

Impact
Mortality:
Contemporary estimates suggest that the epidemic killed between 25–35% of Japan’s population.
In some regions, the death toll was even higher, with reports of entire villages being wiped out.

Social and Cultural Effects:
The high death toll disrupted agricultural production, leading to famine and social unrest.
The loss of laborers affected all levels of society, from peasants to aristocrats.
Cultural practices, including Buddhist rituals, were adopted or intensified as people sought spiritual explanations and solace for the epidemic.

Political Consequences:
The epidemic disproportionately affected the aristocracy and ruling class, leading to instability in governance.
The Fujiwara clan, a dominant political family, suffered significant losses, including the deaths of several key members.

Economic Disruption:
Tax collection and administrative functions were severely hindered by the widespread death of taxpayers and officials.
The scarcity of workers led to decreased agricultural output, worsening the economic impact of the epidemic.

Response to the Epidemic
Buddhist Influence:
The epidemic played a critical role in the promotion of Buddhism as a state religion.
Temples were built, and prayers and rituals were conducted to appease the gods and seek relief from the disease.

Government Measures:
The central government attempted to mitigate the crisis by issuing decrees, such as reducing taxes and redistributing land to stimulate agricultural recovery.
However, these measures were often insufficient due to the scale of the crisis.

Legacy
Population and Demographic Shifts:
The epidemic caused a sharp decline in Japan’s population, which took decades to recover.
This demographic collapse had long-term effects on Japan’s economy and society, with regions experiencing varying degrees of recovery.

Heightened Role of Religion:
The epidemic reinforced the role of Buddhism in Japanese society, as the ruling class turned to Buddhist practices for divine intervention.
The construction of Tōdai-ji temple and the Great Buddha in Nara in the following decades was partly a response to the spiritual and societal impacts of the epidemic.

Historical Significance:
The epidemic is one of the earliest recorded pandemics in Japan and offers insights into the challenges faced by early states in managing large-scale public health crises.
It underscored the vulnerability of isolated populations to diseases introduced through trade and contact with other regions.