Always Has Been: Chapter 1: Lady Mary Wortley Montagu and Smallpox Inoculation

In 1705, Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, an English aristocrat, significantly impacted public health by introducing smallpox inoculation to England. Observing the practice during her visit to the Ottoman Empire, she recognized its potential and had her son inoculated. Despite initial skepticism, her advocacy led to broader acceptance of the practice across Europe. This pivotal moment reduced smallpox outbreaks and set the stage for future developments in vaccination technology.