The First Horseman: Disease in Human History 1st Edition

This is a great book to use as a supplement to classes that are broad in historical focus or ones that focus on disease in history. Most of the diseases that Aberth chooses are perfect for the task. They are clear explanations of the biological and historical factors of each disease, as well as the social ramifications of each. The final section, on AIDS,doesn't quite hit the mark. I believe this may be due to the fact that it is a relatively recent phenomenon and there is a certain lack of perspective about it. The Influenza of 1918 is missing as is flu in general and those may have been more interesting choices. Each chapter also contains primary sources which are well chosen and edited for good effect.

Very interesting topic albeit morbid like. The book is not extensive, not as long as I expected.

This is a very concise, structured and informative little book. It was the first of its kind to introduce me to the field, and it was a really good pick by my history professor. Thoroughly recommended to every college student or history enthusiast who wishes to never see and think of history in the same manner again.