History Daily The Black Death Comes to America
Feb 7, 2025
In February 1900, the bubonic plague hits America, bringing chaos to San Francisco's Chinatown. The struggles of Wong Chut King highlight the racism entwined with the outbreak. Dr. Joseph Kinyon faces daunting challenges as he juggles urgent health needs and political pressures. A doctor's fight to confirm the plague diagnosis reveals deep societal biases. The response spurs sweeping public health reforms and sets the stage for the foundation of the U.S. Public Health Service, underscoring the ongoing battle against infectious diseases.
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First Plague Case
- On February 7, 1900, in San Francisco's Chinatown, Wong Chut King felt unwell.
- After seeing a herbalist, he collapsed and later died from a mysterious illness.
Kinyoun's Foresight
- Dr. Joseph Kinyoun, an expert in infectious diseases, anticipated the plague's arrival.
- He was promoted and transferred to San Francisco, where he would confront the epidemic.
Plague Arrives
- Two stowaways from a Japanese ship, the Nippon Maru, washed ashore dead in San Francisco Bay.
- Tests suggested they had the plague, confirming its presence despite quarantine efforts.