Public Health

Question 1

Before Public Health Acts, 1800s

Answer 1

• Industrial Revolution led to overcrowded, filthy and stinky cities, overrun by cholera and other infectious diseases.
• Governments lacked knowledge to deal with diseases and Laissez-faire politics meant they were unwilling to help.

Question 2

Solution to Industrial revolution

Answer 2

• Cholera solved by Bazalgette’s sewers in London, which also helped the Great Stink, and Snow’s recognition of the cause.
• Chadwick’s political reports prompted government to act on poor conditions and public health.
• Governments gradually introduced new laws - 1848 P.H.A voluntary, but strengthened by 1866 Sanitary Act, and 1875 P.H.A which made its powers compulsory.
• Slum housing gradually reduced due to laws like 1875 Artisans Dwelling Act, but it really remained through middle of 1900s.