Cholera: A Worldwide History

This book traces the history of the disease and the experience of those who suffered its ravages, using their own words from hundreds of newspapers and letters whenever possible. In so doing, the speculations, missteps, sidetracks and prevailing fears are emphasized. The authors describe the agonizingly slow march of progress toward discovering the causes and the treatment of symptoms. Along the way, the heroes of past and present are introduced: men and women who fought for their beliefs—at times against vitriolic and powerful opponents, including the medical authorities of their day.