"The Jacobson Case: Liberty vs. Public Health in 1905"

Dive into the pivotal Supreme Court case of Jacobson v. Massachusetts, where the clash between individual liberties and public health took center stage. In early 1900s Cambridge, a smallpox outbreak prompted local authorities to mandate vaccinations, igniting a fierce debate over personal rights. Join us as we explore the concept of police power, the implications of compulsory vaccination, and the enduring questions of government authority in safeguarding public welfare. Discover how this landmark decision continues to resonate in today’s discussions about health, safety, and freedom.