The phrase, ‘Democracy Dies in Darkness’, underscores the importance of transparency in public health. By exploring the underlying reasons for vaccine hesitancy, advocates can develop more inclusive healthcare strategies.
July 27, 2026 at 10:09 p.m. EDT
By Katherine Shwetz, The Conversation
The Conversation is an independent nonprofit news organization dedicated to providing facts and analysis from researchers and scientists to help readers navigate a complex world.
Vaccine skepticism is not new. Since the inception of vaccines, there have been doubts about their science and safety.
Historical Context of Vaccine Hesitancy
In 19th-century England, mandatory smallpox vaccination sparked riots. Critics argued it infringed on civil rights and violated human bodily autonomy. Similarly, in the United States, resistance to vaccines has a long history. The Anti-Compulsory Vaccination League of Brooklyn, founded in 1894, exemplifies such opposition.
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