Would a sickly emperor make irrational decisions that would affect a dynasty’s future? What would a poet write when he or she was in ill health? What can ordinary people do when disease obstructs their way? Diseases, inevitable yet sometimes overlooked, may change the course of history. Diseases that Changed History casts an eye on diseases, the anti-disease and life-prolonging actions taken by ancient Chinese people to reveal the consequential changes to the course of Chinese history, the destinies of many historical figures, and Chinese thoughts and philosophy. The book covers many interesting topics in relation to disease in China’s history, including epidemic and anti-epidemic measures, ancient healthcare system, life extension medication and politics, sexually transmitted diseases and brothels, the mysterious gu poison and zhangqi (a sickening miasma that is said to come from South China), and the effect of the ancient surgical procedures (such as of the legendary surgeon Hua Tuo). The book is an interesting and thought-provoking read for history lovers.