It is unknown how many people died at Pompeii after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 CE. However, many historians estimate the death toll to be about 2,000, and more than 1,000 bodies have been uncovered thus far. It is believed that most died from asphyxiation. At the time of the disaster, the population of Pompeii was between 10,000 and 20,000, so the vast majority of the residents likely escaped before the city was overwhelmed by hot gasses and debris.
verifiedCite
While every effort has been made to follow citation style rules, there may be some discrepancies.
Please refer to the appropriate style manual or other sources if you have any questions.
Select Citation Style