The 1781 Smallpox Epidemic in Scotland

A Forgotten Crisis

In the annals of Scottish history, the year 1781 marks a period not only of political and economic change but also of a devastating health crisis. The smallpox epidemic of 1781, while often overshadowed by the tumultuous events of the Enlightenment period, had a profound impact on Scotland, affecting its population, societal structure, and the health care practices of the time.

The Outbreak and Spread

Smallpox, a disease as old as history itself, was notorious for its ability to spread rapidly and its high mortality rates. In 1781, Scotland was struck by a particularly virulent outbreak. The epidemic likely started in one of the larger urban centers, where overcrowding and the constant flux of people provided a fertile ground for the disease to thrive. From there, it spread outward, reaching the rural highlands and lowlands, affecting communities large and small, including various Scottish clans.