TRANS-MISSISSIPPI MIASMAS: HOW MALARIA & YELLOW FEVER SHAPED THE COURSE OF THE CIVIL WAR IN THE CONFEDERACY'S WESTERN THEATER.

The article explores the effects of malaria and yellow fever on the Western portions of the Confederate States during the U.S. Civil War. It notes that mosquito-borne illnesses were most prevalent in Arkansas and Texas, noting the rate of epidemics experienced during the war. Particular focus is given to the influence of the threat of disease regarding military strategy and decision-making among Union and Confederate military commanders. The connection between yellow fever and malaria to the military stalemate which developed in Texas and the invasion of Missouri from Arkansas is also discussed.