AS GOOD AS AN ARMY: Mapping Smallpox during the Seven Years’ War in North America

Abstract

There is substantial evidence that smallpox was widespread in North American during the Seven Years’ War. However, there have been no attempts to determine the extent to which it occurred. This thesis will map outbreaks of smallpox from the beginning stages of the conflict in 1752 through to the close of the Anglo-Indian War in 1765. It aims to demonstrate the far-reaching nature of a smallpox epidemic that lasted the duration of the war, and during other periods of intense conflict. After a preliminary consideration of effects the epidemic had on the war, it is clear that future studies are required to determine its full impact.