Go to "History of Biowarfare" Flash required History of Biowarfare by Susan K. Lewis Natural epidemics of such scourges as smallpox and plague are terrifying enough. But the notion that these and other diseases can be harnessed as weapons of war is even more chilling. While rare, the use of biological weapons dates back centuries, and the recent anthrax attacks have brought home in a harrowing way how much of a role they may play in our present era. Here, explore confirmed cases of biowarfare and bioterrorism throughout history, including several that are painfully recent. And learn more about state-sponsored programs that conceivably could provide the seeds of future attacks by terrorists. History of Biowarfare (177K) Requires Flash History of Biowarfare (non-Flash version) Flash is a plug-in that allows for increased interactivity. If you can see the animated boxes at left, the plugin is already installed. If you do not see the boxes, you can install the Flash plugin, or select this feature's non-Flash version. Susan K. Lewis is a contributing editor of NOVA Online. Thanks to Dr. Mark Wheelis of the University of California, Davis for reviewing this history. Photos: (1) WGBH/NOVA; (2,5) National Archives and Records Administration; (3) Native Web, www.nativeweb.org; (4, 6-10) Corbis Images. Printer-Friendly Format   Feedback History of Biowarfare | Future Germ Defenses Interviews with Biowarriors | Global Guide to Bioweapons | Making Vaccines Resources | Teacher's Guide | Transcript | Site Map | Bioterror Home Search | Site Map | Previously Featured | Schedule | Feedback | Teachers | Shop Join Us/E-Mail | About NOVA | Editor's Picks | Watch NOVAs online | To print PBS Online | NOVA Online | WGBH © | Updated November 2001