Of all the diseases that threatened the residents of the Dry Tortugas, none were as terrifying as “Yellow Jack.” Fort Jefferson had previously fallen victim to the plague of yellow fever, which saw the victims’ skin become yellow and their vomit turn black. Starting in August of 1867, another yellow fever outbreak struck the fort. The epidemic ravaged the fort, killing many officers and even the prison doctor. In episode six of the series, we see how the different Lincoln conspirators fought against, endured, and even succumbed to this deadly disease.
Part 6: Yellow Fever
To learn more about this video series and to watch the other installments, please check out The Lincoln Conspirators at Fort Jefferson page.







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