10min chapter

Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford cover image

George Washington's Beard of Beetles (with The Dollop)

Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford

CHAPTER

Bloodletting and Historical Absurdities

This chapter humorously examines the bizarre medical practices during George Washington's final days, particularly focusing on bloodletting and other questionable treatments. The speakers contrast the theatricality of these interventions with their ineffectiveness, offering amusing critiques of the doctors' actions and societal ignorance at the time. Through a mix of historical anecdotes and comedic commentary, they highlight how tragic events can reflect the absurdities of past medical beliefs.

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