Vaccination and the Legacy of Jacobson

This chapter examines the historical roots of vaccine skepticism in the U.S., focusing on Henning Jacobson, a pivotal figure in the early 20th-century vaccination debate. It explores his legacy against the backdrop of contemporary vaccine hesitancy and public health, including the experiences of a pastor from a church with anti-vaccination origins. The narrative reflects on the societal struggle between individual rights and public health responsibilities, tracing the impact of Jacobson's legal battles on current vaccination discussions.