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Read the article, “Virgin Soil Epidemic” by Alfred Crosby. As you read, consider what is the impact of
disease on human history?
Then, read the chapter from Mosquito Empires by John McNeill, consider how did mosquitoes form an
important disease vector and influence imperial warfare?
Next, explore the project “Bunk History – Epidemic Proportions” and the links about the impact of COVID19 on Indigenous populations.
After you complete this, now consider – what will historians want to learn about this pandemic in 50 or 100
years? How can you help to create an archive or collection for individuals interested in understanding the
impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.