Abstract

SANCHEZ, Lireida José. Rumor or Truth? The Peste in Cartagena de Indias in 1696. Front. hist. [online]. 2023, vol.28, n.1, pp.211-236.  Epub Jan 01, 2023. ISSN 2027-4688.  https://doi.org/10.22380/20274688.2369.

This article analyzes a supposed “infestation” that took place in Cartagena in 1696, based on a file that describes the event and the commotion that it caused in that port and in the capital of the viceroyalty. Although there is no consensus on the type of disease and the fatal impact that it had on Cartagena’s society, this paper investigates some possibilities and presents an incipient vein of analysis for future research. In this sense, this work raises contributions to the study of epidemics in the viceroyalty of New Granada, specifically in Cartagena de Indias, some of which are not well documented or studied by historiography. Likewise, through the testimonies of the time, we try to delve into the role played by rumor and fear in these situations, while we trace the contagion routes between Cartagena and Santafé.

Keywords : infestation; epidemic; rumor; Cartagena; Santafé.

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