The Cambridge Geographical Series originated in the late nineteenth century as a means of providing introductory guides to a broad variety of topics. In this volume, which was first published in 1903, the focus is on the relationship between geographical factors and the distribution of disease. In many ways a product of the colonial expansion which was occurring during this period, the text reflects both an emerging global consciousness and the development of an increasingly scientific attitude towards public health. Written for the general reader, it is both informative and highly readable. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in public health, the history of medicine, or the colonial mindset.