The Flu Pandemic Analysis

America dealt with multiple enemies in the 20th century and still remained the most powerful nation in the world. From the atrocities of Hitler to the treachery of the Soviets, America remained strong and upright. How did this happen? Other countries folded under the pressure of conflicts, so what allowed America to remain afloat? The answer can be seen in the midst of a crisis in 1918. World War I had just ended and people were settling down, hoping to enjoy the peace, when an invisible enemy invaded and killed thousands. Robert Marantz Henig, the author of the article, “The Flu Pandemic,” shows that the Flu Pandemic of 1918, though terrible, had three good impacts on America: It changed the ways scientists view illnesses, it started the

The author does not just focus on the Pandemic of 1918, he summarizes influenza in general, but he is informative and has an excellent introduction. For these reasons I would give him an A. Mr. Henig also appear to view Americans as exceptional. The scientists in America realized that Pfeiffer’s bacillus did not cause flu much more quickly than other countries affected by flu. While other scientists clung to their beliefs despite evidence to the contrary, Americans, with their typical industriousness, sought out new cures. Even the normal people tried to aid the process of finding a cure. Also, the American people did not spiral down into a pit of self-pity and apathy. The most destructive war in history up to that time had just been fought, a tenuous peace resolved, and when Americans should be enjoying the fruits of their hard work the Pandemic hits. Instead of self-pity, “In the years following 1919, Americans seemed eager to forget the pandemic”(flu.gov). Americans were resilient and able to stand firm under all that pressure and still throw themselves into the most destructive war in all of history and win. The Flu Pandemic showed the exceptional character of the American