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‘There was little improvement in dealing with infectious diseases in the years c1500-c1900’ - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 6 - 2020 - Paper 1
Question 6
‘There was little improvement in dealing with infectious diseases in the years c1500-c1900’. How far do you agree? Explain your answer. You may use the following ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:‘There was little improvement in dealing with infectious diseases in the years c1500-c1900’ - Edexcel - GCSE History - Question 6 - 2020 - Paper 1
Step 1
Analysis of the Great Plague, 1665
Answer
The Great Plague of 1665 is often cited as an example of the limited improvements in public health during this era. Despite the outbreak leading to high mortality rates, contemporary responses were primitive. Measures taken included quarantine and the burning of contaminated clothing, which were not particularly effective in controlling the outbreak. This suggests a lack of significant advancement in understanding disease causation and prevention.
Step 2
Discussion of the Broad Street Pump
Answer
The Broad Street Pump incident in 1854, where Dr. John Snow identified contaminated water as the source of a cholera outbreak, showcases a pivotal improvement in public health measures. Snow's investigation led to the removal of the pump handle, effectively stopping the outbreak and demonstrating an emerging understanding of germ theory, which would later influence sanitation practices. This indicates a notable shift in the approach to infectious diseases.
Step 3
Use of own information
Answer
Further improvements are evident with the introduction of vaccination and public health reforms in the 19th century. The establishment of the Public Health Act in 1848 marked the beginning of more organized health responses, promoting clean water and better sanitation. These steps reveal that while early efforts were inadequate, significant progress was made toward dealing with infectious diseases over the 18th and 19th centuries.
Step 4
Conclusion
Answer
In conclusion, while there were periods of limited advancement such as during the Great Plague, significant developments occurred later, particularly highlighted by the Broad Street Pump incident and subsequent health reforms. Therefore, I disagree with the statement, as notable improvements in the understanding and management of infectious diseases were achieved by the end of the 19th century.