Conclusion: three puzzles require more research and careful analysis
1. Population catastrophe and care: smallpox probably less severe than other epidemics, although more frequent by 18th century.
2. Genes: role is probably exaggerated; ruthless exploitation and lack of experience with epidemics greatly increased mortality.
3. Public health: inoculation, charity and vaccination reduced smallpox mortality but only at the very end of the colonial period.