Pox Americana: The Great Smallpox Epidemic of 1775-82

Name: Pox Americana: The Great Smallpox Epidemic of 1775-82
Price: 18.24 USD
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4.5 of 5 Stars: History - Pox Americana: The Great Smallpox Epidemic of 1775-82

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Book Synopsis: The astonishing, hitherto unknown truths about a disease that transformed the United States at its birthA horrifying epidemic of smallpox was sweeping across the Americas when the American Revolution began, and yet we know almost nothing about it. Elizabeth A. Fenn is the first historian to reveal how deeply variola affected the outcome of the war in every colony and the lives of everyone in North America.

By 1776, when military action and political ferment increased the movement of people and microbes, the epidemic worsened. Fenn's remarkable research shows us how smallpox devastated the American troops at Québec and kept them at bay during the British occupation of Boston. Soon the disease affected the war in Virginia, where it ravaged slaves who had escaped to join the British forces. During the terrible winter at Valley Forge, General Washington had to decide if and when to attempt the risky inoculation of his troops. In 1779, while Creeks and Cherokees were dying in Georgia, smallpox broke out in Mexico City, whence it followed travelers going north, striking Santa Fe and outlying pueblos in January 1781. Simultaneously, it moved up the Pacific coast and east across the plains as far as Hudson's Bay.

The destructive, desolating power of smallpox made for a cascade of public-health crises and heartbreaking human drama. Fenn's innovative work shows how this mega-tragedy was met and what its consequences were for America.

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Discover the untold story of how a silent killer shaped the birth of a nation with Pox Americana: The Great Smallpox Epidemic of 1775-82. In this groundbreaking and meticulously researched book, Elizabeth A. Fenn reveals the astonishing truths about the devastating smallpox epidemic that ravaged the Americas during the early years of the American Revolution. Uncover a hidden chapter of history that had a profound impact on the outcome of the war in every colony and the lives of every person in North America.

As the military action and political upheaval of the revolution intensified, so did the spread of smallpox. Fenn's remarkable discoveries shed light on how this deadly disease crippled the American troops in Quebec, effectively hindering the British occupation of Boston. The impact of smallpox even reached far into the southern colonies, where it mercilessly claimed the lives of escaped slaves who had sought refuge with the British forces.

Experience the harrowing winter at Valley Forge through the eyes of General Washington himself. With the decision of when and if to risk the inoculation of his soldiers, Washington faced a monumental choice that could determine the fate of his men. Meanwhile, thousands of miles away in Mexico City, smallpox broke out in a devastating wave, spreading rapidly northward and annexing Santa Fe and surrounding pueblos along the way. This catastrophic journey continued across the plains, reaching as far as Hudson's Bay.

Prepare to be captivated by the destructive power of smallpox as it plunged America into a series of public health crises and heartbreaking human drama. Fenn's innovative research immerses readers in the cascade of events brought on by this mega-tragedy, revealing the true extent of its impact on the nation. Don't miss your chance to explore a piece of history that will forever change your perspective - get your copy of Pox Americana: The Great Smallpox Epidemic of 1775-82 today.

Experience the untold story that shaped a nation - Buy Now!

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