Episode 100 - How Pathogens Shaped History

About this episode

The episode explores the profound impact of diseases on human history and societal changes through a discussion with environmental historian John McNeill and disease ecologist Elizabeth Blackmore.

Disease has profoundly shaped human history, influencing major events such as wars, colonization, and migration, while simultaneously being impacted by human behaviors and societal decisions. This conversation dives into the intricate relationship between pathogens and people, exploring how ecological changes and human activities create environments conducive to the spread of diseases. Environmental historian John McNeill and disease ecologist Elizabeth Blackmore discuss key historical moments where diseases like yellow fever and malaria played critical roles in military outcomes and societal transformations. They challenge common narratives about the rapid spread of diseases during colonization, arguing instead for a more nuanced understanding of how pathogens interact with human populations over time. By unpacking these dynamics, the episode emphasizes the importance of accurate storytelling in preparing for future encounters with infectious diseases. How Disease Really Spread in The Americas - Nautilus Transoceanic pathogen transfer in the age of sail and steam - PNAS Elizabeth Blackmore, Yale University John McNeill, Georgetown University

People in this episode

Host: Bradley van Paridon

Guests: John McNeill, Elizabeth Blackmore

Topics covered

• pathogens
• history
• disease
• ecology
• colonization
• migration

Keywords

• pathogens
• disease history
• colonization
• yellow fever
• malaria
• ecological changes
• human behavior

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Yale University, Georgetown University

Books & works: How Disease Really Spread in The Americas, Nautilus, PNAS

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