What two tragedies occurred in London 1665-1666?

* Death toll: Over 100,000 people (about 15% of London's population)

* Cause: Bubonic plague, spread by fleas carried by rats

* Symptoms: Fever, chills, weakness, and the formation of buboes (swollen lymph nodes)

The Great Fire of London (1666)

* Area destroyed: Over 13,000 houses, 87 churches, and the Royal Exchange

* Cause: Started in a baker's shop on Pudding Lane and quickly spread due to strong winds and dry weather

* Aftermath: Rebuilding the city took over 10 years and resulted in several major changes, including the creation of wider streets and the use of fire-resistant materials