39 pages • 1 hour read
Plagues and Peoples
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Book Brief
368
Book • Nonfiction
Global • Throughout History
1976
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Plagues and Peoples, William H. McNeill explores how disease patterns have significantly influenced human history from prehistory to modern times, emphasizing the interdependence between humans and microparasites. Starting from 100,000 years ago in sub-Saharan Africa, McNeill charts the co-evolution of humans and diseases through the agricultural revolution, the rise of civilizations, global trade, and technological advances. He asserts that while humanity has made significant strides in combating diseases, vulnerability to new parasitic invasions remains. The narrative acknowledges the heavy toll of diseases on populations, especially in the Americas during European colonization.
Informative
Mysterious
Challenging
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
5,418 ratings
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Review Roundup
William H. McNeill's Plagues and Peoples is widely acclaimed for its groundbreaking examination of disease's role in shaping human history. The book is praised for its interdisciplinary approach and insightful analysis. However, some critics note it can be dense and occasionally oversimplified. Overall, it's a compelling read for those interested in historical epidemiology.
Who Should Read Plagues and Peoples?
Readers who relish comprehensive historical analysis and the interplay between disease and society will find Plagues and Peoples by William H. McNeill fascinating. Fans of Jared Diamond's Guns, Germs, and Steel and John Barry's The Great Influenza will appreciate McNeill's interdisciplinary approach and in-depth exploration of pandemics' roles in shaping human history.
5,418 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Muhammad ibn Zakariya al-Razi
Muhammad ibn Zakariya al-Razi
A Persian physician whose historical insights suggest the spread of measles in ancient Rome and its significant impact during the time.
Bartolome de Las Casas
Bartolome de Las Casas
A historical figure noted by McNeill for his account of the devastation smallpox wrought upon the indigenous populations of Hispaniola during the era of Spanish conquest.
Thucydides
Thucydides
An ancient historian referenced for his documentation of a smallpox-like disease that affected Athens, providing evidence of the disease's historical effects on military forces.
John Snow
John Snow
A key figure in the scientific study of cholera, known for his demographic research on its spread in a London neighborhood, which contributed to advances in understanding and infrastructure.
368
Book • Nonfiction
Global • Throughout History
1976
Adult
18+ years
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