The disease that has killed the most people in history is smallpox.
Devastating Diseases in History
Throughout human history, several diseases have caused immense suffering and death. Some of the most notable include:
- Cholera
- Bubonic Plague
- Smallpox
- Influenza
These diseases have, at various times, caused widespread outbreaks, crossing international borders and becoming global pandemics.
Smallpox's Devastating Toll
According to the provided reference, smallpox stands out as a particularly brutal killer. Over its 12,000-year history, smallpox is estimated to have killed between 300 to 500 million people. This staggering number makes it the deadliest disease in recorded human history.
Why Was Smallpox So Deadly?
- Highly contagious: Smallpox spread easily from person to person, especially in densely populated areas.
- No natural immunity: Before the development of vaccines, most people had no natural resistance to smallpox.
- High mortality rate: The disease often resulted in death, leaving behind significant disfigurement for survivors.
Conclusion
While diseases like cholera, bubonic plague, and influenza have caused significant death and devastation, the sheer scale of mortality caused by smallpox, with estimates between 300 and 500 million fatalities, makes it the deadliest disease in human history.
