menu

Chapter 12 #21

c) George Washington

George Washington, the first President of the United States, survived a bout of smallpox in Barbados in 1751, which left him immune during the smallpox epidemic in America. His survival of this potentially deadly disease was a significant personal triumph and had broader implications for his leadership. During the American Revolutionary War, Washington’s immunity allowed him to remain in command during critical periods when smallpox outbreaks were rampant, showcasing not only his personal resilience but also his ability to lead effectively in the face of widespread health crises.