In 1728, Mary Wortley Montagu, an English aristocrat, introduced smallpox inoculation to Western Europe, sparking controversy and debate. Having observed the practice during her time in the Ottoman Empire, Montagu advocated for its use to curb the devastating disease. Despite its potential public health benefits, the method faced resistance due to fears over safety and efficacy, as well as suspicion of foreign techniques. This resistance highlighted the difficulties in integrating novel medical practices in 18th-century Europe.