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How did the Black Death and the Hundred Years’ War affect Burgundy’s population and trade?

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Map of France highlighting the Burgundy (Bourgogne) region in white at the center-east of the country, with major cities such as Dijon, Nevers, Auxerre, and Macon labeled. Surrounding countries and bodies of water, including Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Mediterranean Sea, are also shown. An inset map in the upper left corner shows the location of Burgundy within France. — Burgundy Burgundy (Bourgogne), historical region of France.

During the 14th and 15th centuries, Burgundy faced significant challenges due to the Black Death and the Hundred Years’ War.

The arrival of the plague in 1348, combined with the depredations caused by mercenary bands throughout the Hundred Years’ War, led to a perceptible decline in the population. This demographic shift placed a heavy strain on regional production during the 15th century.

Regarding trade, these disruptions threatened the lucrative commerce in grain, wines, and finished wool. Furthermore, the importance of the region's market-fairs diminished during this period. Despite these hardships, Burgundy generally maintained a higher level of security compared to many other parts of Europe during the 14th and 15th centuries.1