America, it was more dangerous to live in a city than in the country.
Lethal microbes had plenty of opportunity to spread as the
population of the United States exploded. By the time George
Soper turned thirty, he had seen the nation's size double to 76
million as immigrants flooded in. Many of the newcomers settled
in the fast-growing cities. In 1870, only 25 percent of the
American population lived in urban areas. By 1900, that
number had increased to 40 percent.. . .
This environment was hard on the body. A white male born in a
major American city was likely to die ten years sooner than
one born in a rural area.
Doctors, scientists, and public health officials realized that by
controlling or eliminating germs, they could prevent some of
the deadly diseases.
1 answer
The best evidence to support the statement that in late 1800s America, it was more dangerous to live in a city than in the country is:
"A white male born in a major American city was likely to die ten years sooner than one born in a rural area."
This statement directly highlights the increased danger and health risks associated with urban living compared to rural areas during that time.
