Resources

Lessons

1. Lesson 1: Early AIDS History and Emerging Infectious Diseases

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   The first lesson explores how historical interpretations of AIDS changed dramatically in the first years after its identification, just as our understanding of other infectious diseases have shifted and evolved over time. Close

2. Lesson 2: U.S. Government (In)Action

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   The second lesson focuses on analysis and interpretation of the government’s response to the AIDS epidemic following its emergence.Close

3. Lesson 3: Visual Culture and Public Health Posters

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   The third lesson explores the subject of visual culture and the role of imagery in the history of responses to AIDS by deconstructing the various strategies used in public health posters as tools of public education designed to encourage disease prevention.Close

4. Lesson 4: Target Populations, Harm Reduction, and Preventive Practices

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   The fourth lesson focuses on analysis of how public health officials and activists created messages designed for target populations. Close

5. Lesson 5: Doing Science, Making Myths

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   The fifth lesson examines how and why scientists struggled to understand AIDS in the 1980s. Against the backdrop of fear and misunderstanding that permeated society, scientists’ initial findings sometimes produced unintended political consequences. Close

6. Lesson 6: Fight Back, Fight AIDS

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   The final lesson explores how AIDS presented unprecedented challenges and opportunities for activists. The lesson pays particular attention to how activism and advocacy shaped public policy and responses to AIDS.Close

7. About the Author