Damage Control: The Untold Story of Venereal Disease in Hamilton, 1900-1950

Abstract

<p>Venereal disease, now known as sexually-transmitted disease, has a long history of association with humanity. Syphilis, in particular, has attracted enormous debate and controversy ever since the fifteenth century when it erupted in epidemic form in Naples, Italy. This controversy continues not only because there are unresolved questions about where and when syphilis emerged (Powell and Cook 2005), but also because shifting attitudes, perceptions and values toward sexuality affect medical practice, social behaviour, public health practices and the experiences of people afflicted with it (Brandt 1987).</p> <p><br />This was certainly the case in early twentieth century Canada, the period within which this book is set. The shocking revelation in 1914 that the Canadian Expeditionary Force had the highest level of venereal disease of all the military<br />units serving in Europe was met with surprise, disgust and fear (Cassel 1987). At the time, venereal disease symbolized corrupt sexuality and was understood to be a sign of moral pollution, filth, and disordered sexual practice (Brandt 1987). How could such a disturbing situation have arisen in Canadian society? What did it signal about the state of morality, personal character, and the social order? Who was to blame for this hidden epidemic: irresponsible individuals or deplorable social conditions? What did the unexpectedly high prevalence of diseases transmitted through sexual behaviour mean for the future of the fledgling country? How could the damage wrought by venereal disease be prevented, controlled and cured?</p> <p><br />Damage Control takes up these questions and tells the untold story of how venereal disease, particularly syphilis, was experienced and understood in Hamilton, Ontario from World War I (WWI) to the mid-twentieth century. Written by fourth-year Honours Anthropology students studying infectious disease at McMaster University, this book is the product of a collaborative writing process. The authors brainstormed the subject matter of the book, then conducted in-depth research in archives in Hamilton and beyond to compile a rich set of newspapers, public health reports, images, and statistics which they shared through a university website. They made stimulating suggestions for each others’ chapters as the writing progressed from the germ of an idea to a fully-developed discussion. In short, everyone contributed to the entirety of the book in an exemplary demonstration of dedicated teamwork and commitment to the project.</p>