In colonial New England, the only method of smallpox inoculation was the transfer of pus from a smallpox pustule onto the skin of a healthy individual. While the practice of inoculation was common amongst Native Americans, Blacks, and the British Army, it was considered repulsive by Colonists. For this reason inoculation was highly restricted or even prohibited is a large portion of New England.
General Washington’s attempts to inoculate his troops from smallpox were often blocked by these restrictions. As such, his army was repeatedly devastated by outbreaks.
Source
Becker, Ann M. 2004. “Smallpox in Washington’s Army: Strategic Implications of the Disease during the American Revolutionary War.” The Journal of Military History 68(2):381-430.
Christopher Albon is a Ph.D. candidate specializing in armed conflict, public health, human security, and health diplomacy.
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