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Technological Advances and Limitations After 1900: Disease

Driving Question: To what extent has technology helped mitigate the effects of diseases, and where has it failed to do so?

The environmental historian J.R. McNeill argues that since the end of the Second World War, the pace of change produced by human activities has accelerated at an unprecedented rate. During the era of intense globalization, technological innovation, population growth, and human impacts on the planet have all increased exponentially. Why did this dramatic acceleration start, and how will it impact life on Earth?

Learning Objectives

  1. Explain how environmental factors affected human populations over time.
  2. Create and support arguments using historical evidence to communicate conclusions.

Vocab Terms:

  • epidemic
STEP 1

Opener: Technological Advances and Limitations After 1900: Disease

This activity is in development and will be coming soon!

STEP 2

Technological Innovations and Limitations

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STEP 3

Eradicating Small Pox

The eradication of smallpox was a huge step in helping ensure the safety of mankind. What can we learn from this feat to help prevent future pandemics?

Eradicating Smallpox External link

In 1980, humanity officially eradicated the dreaded smallpox virus. Dr. Larry Brilliant tells the long history of this unique accomplishment and what it means for the future.

Key Ideas

As this video progresses, key ideas will be introduced to invoke discussion.
STEP 4

Closer: Technological Advances and Limitations After 1900: Disease

This activity is in development and will be coming soon!