Cholera and the Water Supply in the South Districts of London in 1854

"Cholera and the Water Supply in the South Districts of London in 1854" by John Snow unveils a mid-19th century investigation into London's cholera outbreak and its connection to contaminated water sources. The publication centers around the cholera epidemic of 1854, with a focus on how the water supply influenced its spread. Snow's early findings highlight that cholera originates in the digestive system and spreads person-to-person, especially where hygiene is poor. Prior outbreaks and contaminated Thames water are discussed, and his statistical analysis shows a relationship between sewage-contaminated water and higher death rates. Snow’s work emphasized his theory about the importance of clean water in preventing disease.