Historical Studies (Chinese Edition)

No.5, 2013

 

The Controversy Triggered by Compulsory Smallpox Vaccination in Britain in the 19^th Century                                        

(Abstract)

 

Wang Guangkun

 

In the second half of the 19^th century, in order to curb the spread of smallpox, the British government carried out mandatory vaccination under the Compulsory Vaccination Act. Although it reduced the hazard of smallpox, compulsory vaccination was to a certain extent an infringement of citizens' individual rights, and thus caused protracted social controversies. Opponents, making full use of public opinion, instigated a large-scale anti-compulsory vaccination campaign, demanding that the government respect the wishes of the individual. In the early 20th century, with smallpox effectively controlled, the British government finally abolished compulsory vaccination, allowing people to decide for themselves whether to be vaccinated against smallpox. The controversy reflected the strong British tradition of freedom and demonstrated the virtue of compromise inherent in its political model.