The history of the world according to rats - Max G. Levy
Updated: February 23, 2025
Summary
The video explores the fascinating history and significance of rats in human civilization. From serving as authorized rat catchers in ancient times to being crucial subjects of scientific research today, rats have played a crucial role in human history. Their ability to survive drastic environmental changes and their biological similarities to humans have made them valuable in understanding neuroscience and disease spread.
London Rat Catcher in 1851
In 1851, a man claiming to be Queen Victoria's authorized rat catcher captivated a crowd in London with tricks and poisons.
Entangled History of Humans and Rats
Human and rat species both appeared in Asia 1 to 3 million years ago, surviving Earth's ice age and earning a place in the Chinese zodiac.
Trade Routes and Rodent Spread
Trade routes between East Asia and the West led to the spread of black rats first, believed to have infiltrated Egypt as top rat catchers.
Black Death and Rats
Black rats brought infectious diseases like the Black Death in the 1340s, though they didn't directly spread the plague to humans.
Brown Rats' Evolution
Brown rats, welcomed in Japan, displaced black rats by evolving resistance to poisons and outcompeting them for resources.
Rats in Scientific Research
In 1906, rats became essential for scientific research due to their biological similarities to humans and intelligence, aiding in neuroscience discoveries.
FAQ
Q: What is the historical significance of rats in human society?
A: Rats have a long history of importance in human society, from being used for rat catching and spreading diseases like the Black Death to becoming essential for scientific research due to their biological similarities to humans.
Q: How did black rats spread and what impact did they have?
A: Black rats spread through trade routes between East Asia and the West, infiltrating Egypt and other areas. They brought infectious diseases like the Black Death in the 1340s, although they did not directly spread the plague to humans.
Q: What led to the displacement of black rats by brown rats in Japan?
A: Brown rats welcomed in Japan evolved resistance to poisons and outcompeted black rats for resources, leading to the displacement of the black rats.
Q: Why did rats become essential for scientific research in 1906?
A: Rats became essential for scientific research in 1906 due to their biological similarities to humans and intelligence, which aided in neuroscience discoveries.
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