Plague and Tension in Early 1900s San Francisco

This chapter delves into the bubonic plague outbreak in early 20th century San Francisco, highlighting the initial discovery of a case and the ensuing distrust between health authorities and government officials. It reveals the complexities of managing the crisis, from the role of a Chinese interpreter in building community trust to the absurd efforts to cover up the outbreak by various stakeholders. Through the lens of public health challenges and societal tensions, the narrative illustrates how racial dynamics influenced the response to the plague and the urgent need for cooperation in containment efforts.