Provides some historical context for the concept of government's role in providing health care. Ignores the changes in the medical profession over the centuries that have made the bargain more costly (i.e., physicians' expectations of high compensation, specialization, technology and pharmeceutical advances) - and the case for universal coverage more reasonable.

The author recognizes the importance of individual healthcare responsibility in the success of universal healthcare coverage. He also recognizes that most people have the inaccurate view that universal coverage will mean a government-run program that does nothing to foster individual responsibility.

Interesting historical perspective. As America debates the pros and cons of universal healthcare in the 2008 campaign, it should be understood that worldwide, the US ranks 19th in overall healthcare, and 37th for healthcare systems.

This is an opinion piece, not a fact-based report, lacks sources, and is inaccurate in some particulars (e.g., Romney is distancing himself from the MA plan - which isn't working well - and Clinton's plan has subsequently been released). It is one particular view of how history has influenced health care and essentially makes a conservative argument against single-payer, saying that people should (and want to) take care of themselves -while ignoring the problem of health care ... More »

The author shows a historical perspective that has very little to do with the early 20th Century Labor, Suffrage, and The Great War to End All Post War Movements. The slaughter of that war coupled with the YOYO mentality largely promoted by the late 19th Century Robber Barrons and the ravings of the Religious Right on Radio that You're On Your Own Jack unless you're under Our Tent was only deepened by the Great Depression. That is the prime mover behind that generation's response ... More »