While silk did not globally "fail," production significantly declined in certain regions, most notably in France, during a specific period.
The primary reason for the substantial decline in silk production during this time was linked to health issues affecting the silkworms themselves.
The Impact of Disease
Based on historical accounts:
- Epidemic Diseases: An epidemic of several silkworm diseases occurred.
- Production Fall: This epidemic caused production to fall significantly.
- Regional Impact: The decline was particularly severe in France, where the industry never fully recovered from this setback.
This period of disease outbreak severely hampered the ability to produce silk efficiently, leading to reduced output and economic difficulties for producers.
Recovery and Modern Dominance
Despite the challenges faced in areas like France, the global silk industry did not cease. In the 20th century, countries like Japan and China regained their prominent positions in silk production. Today, China stands as the world's largest producer of silk, demonstrating that the industry, while facing past challenges, ultimately recovered and thrives in modern times.
The issues encountered were primarily biological (silkworm diseases) leading to a regional decline rather than a complete global failure of the material itself.
