HIST 200-01b History of Global Pandemics: Bibliography of works about Epidemic Diseases

The bibliography includes commentary and publications by historians in both scholarly and popular periodical literature; recorded lectures and webcasts; and digitized primary source materials from past epidemics and pandemics. In amassing these references, the AHA seeks to provide a space where anyone, regardless of expertise, can find digital historical material relevant to the COVID-19 crisis. Educators will find the bibliography especially useful as a professionally vetted index of online resources amenable to remote instruction.

Extremely extensive bibliography of works on various epidemics. Great resource.

The rapid spread of the COVID-19 virus in the United States and around the world leaves many of us seeking ways to place the pandemic in historical context. The American Social History Project has compiled a list of resources to assist students, teachers, and the general public in understanding past epidemics and connect this knowledge to the present situation. We have also generated discussion questions. Please share this site widely, and check back as we plan to update and expand the collection.

This series of discussions by scholars in the humanities and social sciences explores a variety of issues related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Listen to international perspectives on the history of epidemics and public health crises around the world; the intersection of COVID-19 with issues of race, gender, and economic status; and the broader consequences of pandemics throughout society.
After listening, be sure to explore the "Resources" section with further reading and information for researchers.

Pandemic Perspectives is a project initiated by Dr. Marsha Richmond, with Allie Penn serving as Project Coordinator, as a response to the current global Covid-19 pandemic. Faculty and students (from History & other departments) were invited to create presentations, videos, or podcasts to provide historical perspective for various epidemics and pandemics throughout history. The case studies examine outbreaks ranging from the ancient world to the present, including: two plagues in the Greco-Roman world, smallpox and other epidemics among indigenous people in North America, African Americans and the 1793 yellow fever Philadelphia epidemic, the 1918-1919 Spanish influenza, and the HIV-AIDS epidemic. Each presentation evaluates the science behind particular microbes and illnesses, and illuminates the historical context, the impact on society, parallels to Covid-19, while providing additional resources for further study.

This is not the first time that humans have confronted pandemic disease (from plague to SARS and influenza, from smallpox and measles to cholera and HIV). Historians have long studied these pandemics, taught their lessons, and preached to be prepared for the next one. Today, more than ever, insight about past pandemics and how they transform (and deform) societies is essential as we survive and rebuild. This page offers links to Origins’ many essays, podcasts, and videos on pandemics. Enjoy and be well.
Published by the History Departments at Ohio State University and Miami University (OH).