Fake News And The 1918 Flu

The video discusses the spread of misinformation during pandemics, comparing the modern era with the 1918 influenza pandemic. It highlights how both government and media played roles in downplaying the severity of the disease to maintain morale during World War I. The Sedition Act of 1918 further suppressed press freedom, leading to more deaths from the pandemic than from the war itself. The video emphasizes the importance of press freedom in holding those in power accountable.

What was a major consequence of leaders downplaying the severity of pandemics?

• Higher death rates

• Increased public awareness

• Decreased media coverage

• Improved healthcare systems

During the 1918 pandemic, why was the US government concerned about negative news?

• It could lower public morale and affect the war effort

• It might lead to a political coup

• It would increase newspaper sales

• It could cause a stock market crash

How did newspapers contribute to the downplaying of the 1918 influenza pandemic?

• By publishing daily death tolls

• By focusing solely on the war

• By promoting public health measures

• By encouraging public gatherings

What was the purpose of the Sedition Act of 1918?

• To suppress criticism of the government

• To encourage public debate

• To promote freedom of speech

• To increase military recruitment

What lesson does the 1918 pandemic teach about the role of the press?

• The press should avoid reporting on health issues

• The press should always support the government

• Media should focus on entertainment during crises

• Freedom of the press is crucial for holding power accountable