Colonization, Mercury, and Absurd Histories

This chapter examines the devastating impact of European colonization on Native American populations, particularly through the spread of diseases like smallpox. It blends dark humor with historical anecdotes, exploring peculiar stories about figures like Blackbeard and the curious uses of mercury in ancient tombs. The dialogue takes a turn toward the bizarre, discussing unconventional medical practices and contemporary tales that reflect a long history of unusual drug administration methods.