A History of Pandemics

Welcome to A History of Pandemics! Every month, delve into the history of the world's most infamous epidemics and pandemics. Each outbreak will be analyzed of its background, causes, and its impact on society. The perfect podcast for those who want to dive into the intersection of science and history!

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Episodes

The HIV/AIDS Pandemic

In honour of Pride Month in June, join Megan as she discusses the HIV/AIDS pandemic, one that is still ongoing today and disproportionately affects those in the LGBTQ2IA+ community. This episode will delve into the differences between the HIV virus and AIDS, how it spread worldwide, and the stigma that surrounded those afflicted by the disease.

Jul 06, 2022•15 min•Season 1Ep. 10

The Spanish Flu

Join Megan as she talks about the Spanish Flu, one of the 20th century's most notorious disease outbreaks. Please note that A History of Pandemics will be taking a brief hiatus; expect episodes to return beginning in the summer of 2022.

Apr 30, 2022•8 min•Season 1Ep. 9

The Black Death

In this episode of A History of Pandemics, Megan revisits one of the most infamous epidemics of bubonic plague in history - The Black Death. Brought to Europe by Genoese sailors travelling within the Mediterranean, this disease outbreak amassed one of the highest death tolls in human history within the span of a few years. Although this epidemic was truly devastating, it brought about social reform that helped to shape the structure of society as we know it today.

Feb 15, 2022•17 min•Season 1Ep. 8

Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Part 2

Join Megan in Part 2 of the COVID-19 series where she interviews her Strings teacher, Ms. Ruth Anderson, about how COVID-19 has affected teachers and musicians. Lord Byng Strings Website: https://lordbyngstrings.com/ Watch the Menuhin 2021 Competition here: https://www.youtube.com/user/MenuhinCompetition

Jun 14, 2021•40 min•Ep. 7

Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Part 1

Join Megan and her two special guests (aka her friends), Darren and Vanessa, as they discuss the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on teenagers and students. Vandarly Tutoring is a small business created by Darren and Vanessa to make tutoring more accessible to students during the pandemic. Prices are extremely affordable and 25% of proceeds go towards GoFundMe pages to combat Asian hate crimes (which are an effect of this pandemic). Website: https://vandarlytutoring.wixsite.com/website Instagram...

May 12, 2021•56 min•Ep. 6

The Plague of Athens

The Plague of Athens killed off more than a quarter of the Athenian population and was the single largest loss of life in Ancient Greek history. However, despite its significant impact, the identity of the disease is still a mystery. Join Megan as she walks through the historical context of the plague and attempts to identify the disease. Music Kevin Macleod - Ancient Rite

May 01, 2021•20 min•Ep. 5

The Cholera Pandemics: Part 2

Join Megan as she discusses the last four cholera pandemics in this two-part series on cholera. In this episode, we examine the last four major cholera outbreaks, highlight two scientists who have (unfortunately) flown under the radar, and dissect the positive and negative impacts of the cholera pandemics. Music: Desert Caravan by Aaron Kenny

Apr 01, 2021•18 min•Ep. 4

The Cholera Pandemics: Part 1

Cholera is one of the world's most notorious waterborne diseases and is responsible for SEVEN separate pandemics spanning 150 years. Join Megan in part one of a two-part series where we dissect each cholera pandemic in detail. In part one, we will examine the first three cholera pandemics, as well as shine a light on John Snow (no relation to Jon Snow from Game of Thrones), whose work regarding cholera gave him the name "The Father of Epidemiology".

Mar 16, 2021•22 min•Ep. 3

The Columbian Exchange

While the Columbian Exchange is mostly related to the trading of food, animals, and culture between Europe and the Americas, there is also one other thing that was exchanged too - disease. After the colonization of the New World, diseases such as smallpox, carried by European colonizers, ravaged the Indigenous populations of the Americas. In this episode, we will explore the background of colonization, what smallpox is, and examine the tragedy of the Siege of Fort Pitt. Music "Al Andalus - Shane...

Mar 01, 2021•23 min•Ep. 2

The Plague of Justinian

The Plague of Justinian was the first documented pandemic in history which arguably brought the downfall of the Byzantine Empire. This outbreak is also the predecessor of the Black Death, as they both share the same causative agent: the plague, also known as yersinia pestis . Join Megan in this episode as she uncovers one of the most infamous outbreaks in antiquity.

Feb 04, 2021•17 min•Ep. 1

Welcome to A History of Pandemics

Welcome to A History of Pandemics! Beginning on February 1st, join us as we dive into the history behind some of the world's most infamous epidemics and pandemics.

Jan 10, 2021•58 sec

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