Question

Which statement best summarizes the effect diseases had on the Spanish-American War?

Answer 1

Answer:

More American soldiers died from diseases like yellow fever and malaria than were killed in the battle

Explanation:

Answer 2

Answer:

More American soldiers were killed by diseases such as yellow fever and malaria than were killed in battle.

Explanation:

According to a different source, these are the options that come with this question:

• When American troops returned home, diseases caused epidemics throughout the United States.
• The Spanish-American War marked the first time biological weapons were used in warfare.
• Diseases shortened the war by forcing the United States to retreat after epidemics spread throughout the army.
• More American soldiers were killed by diseases such as yellow fever and malaria than were killed in battle.

When soldiers are fighting abroad, one of the main dangers that they face is the risk of contracting diseases. There are several reasons for this. Soldiers usually lack immunity or resistance to diseases that are only common abroad. Moreover, they tend to live in very large groups and with very unhygienic conditions. Finally, their immune system tends to be compromised due to malnutrition and exhaustion. This was a serious problem during the Spanish-American War, as more American soldiers were killed by diseases such as yellow fever and malaria than were killed in battle.