The disease that proved to be a deadly killer for the original inhabitants of America was smallpox.

Smallpox and its Origin:
Smallpox is an infectious disease caused by the variola virus. It is thought to have originated in Africa or India and spread to other parts of the world through trade and exploration routes. European explorers and settlers brought smallpox to the Americas during the Age of Exploration, resulting in devastating consequences for the native populations.

Impact on the Indigenous People:
1. Lack of Immunity:
The indigenous people of America had no previous exposure to smallpox and therefore had no immunity to the disease. As a result, they were highly susceptible to infection and suffered high mortality rates.

2. Rapid Spread:
Smallpox spreads through respiratory droplets and direct contact with infected individuals or objects. The close-knit communities of the indigenous people facilitated the rapid transmission of the disease, leading to widespread outbreaks.

3. High Mortality Rates:
Smallpox had a high mortality rate among the indigenous people due to their lack of immunity. The disease caused severe symptoms, including high fever, body rash, and the formation of fluid-filled blisters. Many succumbed to the disease, resulting in a significant population decline.

4. Disruption of Societies:
The impact of smallpox extended beyond the loss of lives. The disease disrupted the social fabric of indigenous communities, as entire families and villages were wiped out. Traditional practices and knowledge were lost, leading to cultural and societal upheaval.

5. Advantage for Colonizers:
The devastating impact of smallpox on the indigenous population inadvertently provided an advantage to the European colonizers. The weakened indigenous communities were more susceptible to colonization and conquest, leading to the establishment of European colonies in the Americas.

Efforts to Control Smallpox:
1. Vaccination:
In the 18th century, the practice of inoculation, which involved intentionally exposing individuals to smallpox, was introduced. Later, the development of the smallpox vaccine by Edward Jenner in the late 18th century provided a more effective means of prevention.

2. Eradication:
In the 20th century, a global campaign was launched to eradicate smallpox. Through widespread vaccination efforts, surveillance, and containment measures, smallpox was declared eradicated in 1980, making it the first disease to be eradicated by human effort.

In conclusion, smallpox proved to be a deadly killer for the original inhabitants of America. The lack of immunity, rapid spread, high mortality rates, and the subsequent disruption of indigenous societies had far-reaching consequences. However, efforts to control and eradicate the disease have been successful, ensuring that future generations are protected from its devastating effects.