Smallpox vaccination The global smallpox eradication campaign of the late 1960s and early 1970s ultimately led to the successful eradication of smallpox. (more) Vaccine Mandates: A Timeline Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/science/Vaccine-Mandates-A-Timeline Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

　　External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written by Kara Rogers Kara Rogers is the senior editor of biomedical sciences at Encyclopædia Britannica, where she oversees a range of content from medicine and genetics to microorganisms. She joined Britannica in 2006 and... Kara Rogers Fact-checked by The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica Last Updated: Sep 10, 2025 • Article History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot Vaccine mandates have been part of public health for more than two centuries, beginning with efforts to control smallpox and later expanding to protect children through school-entry requirements. Over time, they have reflected both advances in medical science and shifting public attitudes toward disease prevention. Today they are at the center of the debate over personal liberty vs. public health, specifically concerning vaccine requirements and nonmedical vaccine exemptions for schoolchildren. The history of these mandates highlights the continuing tension between individual freedom and collective responsibility in the fight against infectious disease. Vaccine Mandates Through History The first mandate for smallpox ...(100 of 296 words)

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