This issue will take a look at modern critical care techniques in a historical context. Topics include:: Shock and Organ failure, Battlefield trauma, traumatic shock and consequences:: War-related advances in critical care, Lessons from Modern Disasters and Wars:: Bhopal, Chernobyl, Oklahoma City Bombing, 9/11, Hurricane Katrina, Tsunami, Iraq, Plagues with Critical Care Implications:: Legionairres, Staph toxic shock, SARS, Hantavirus, Group A strep nec toxic shock, Marburg and hemorrhagic fevers, Avian flu and more!