A Virus Disrupts the Economy
In the fall of 1872, a horse flu pandemic spread from Canada to Central America, infecting millions of horses and mules. These animals powered transportation, agriculture, and industry. As they fell sick, cities faced shortages of coal, food, and other vital supplies.
Paralyzed Cities
Without horses, mail was delivered by wheelbarrow, saloons ran out of beer, and businesses hired humans to pull carts. Firefighters, unable to move their wagons, faced disaster when a massive fire ravaged downtown Boston. The crisis exposed how reliant society was on these animals.
Bergh’s Crusade Against Cruelty
Henry Bergh, founder of the ASPCA, inspected sick horses in New York City, forcing owners to send them home to recover. While some mocked him, others praised his efforts to prevent suffering during the crisis.
Recovery and Reflection
As the flu subsided, the nation recovered, but the epidemic forced Americans to reconsider their treatment of animals. Bergh’s advocacy marked a turning point, inspiring movements to protect working animals and highlighting their role in shaping modern cities.
In the fall of 1872, a horse flu pandemic spread from Canada to Central America, infecting millions of horses and mules. These animals powered transportation, agriculture, and industry. As they fell sick, cities faced shortages of coal, food, and other vital supplies. pic.twitter.com/ZebYrpTK2f
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