"For the first time in recorded history the entire planet coordinated a response to an existential threat" Umm... - Smallpox eradication was a global effort. -

"For the first time in recorded history the entire planet coordinated a response to an existential threat" Umm... - Smallpox eradication was a global effort. - Polio eradication was a global effort.(unfortunately delayed by religious fanatics in a small number of countries)