In this detailed history of infectious diseases, John Hamilton draws upon his extensive experience with other faculty members and staff and delivers an insider's account of some of the more prevalent and/or serious diseases, the physicians and researchers studying them, and the programs supporting them at Duke University and its affiliate, the Durham VA Medical Center. Combining insights from his own experience and almost 100 interviews of current and former faculty members and staff and his complete access to the Medical Center Archives, he explores: Medical education, public health, and the disease portfolio before and during the 20th century in the world, the state and the city of Durham, North Carolina, Reasons why James B. "Buck" Duke invested his money into what became Duke University, Relevant personal and professional papers belonging to departed or deceased faculty, And provides extensive references for those who wish to delve into the science.