The Great Farewell: How Did George Washington Catch His Last Cold?
George Washington, the man, the myth, the legend... and also a guy who wasn't exactly great at listening to his momma (or maybe he just didn't have one around to nag him). Because let's face it, the first President of the United States met his demise in a way that would make any doctor throw their hands up in exasperation.
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| How Did George Washington Die Of |
The Not-So-Revolutionary Culprit: A Throat Gone Rogue
So, what exactly sent our Founding Father to the great cherry orchard in the sky? A nasty case of epiglottitis, most likely. Epiglottitis is basically when the epiglottis, that little flap in your throat that keeps food from going down the wrong pipe, gets all inflamed and swollen. Think of it like a tiny, angry traffic cop blocking the highway to your lungs. Not a pleasant way to go.
But how'd he get it? Buckle up, history buffs, because this is where things get interesting. Apparently, good ol' George was out riding his horse (because, of course he was) on a snowy day. He gets back all chilled to the bone, but instead of doing the sensible thing and throwing on a fuzzy sweater and some slippers, he heads straight to dinner in his damp clothes. Classic mistake, George! We've all been there, but for the leader of a fledgling nation, this fashion faux pas proved fatal.
Tip: Don’t just scroll — pause and absorb.
Doctored Up (Literally) But Not Doctored Enough
Of course, Washington's doctors weren't exactly miracle workers. Their medical practices, while cutting-edge for the time, would make a modern-day physician wince. We're talking bloodletting, blistering agents, and a truly horrifying-sounding gargle of molasses, vinegar, and butter. Let's just say it probably didn't soothe his throat much.
Despite their best efforts (or perhaps because of them?), Washington succumbed to his illness on December 14th, 1799. So, the next time you're feeling a tickle in your throat, take a page out of George's book (the metaphorical one, not the medical one) and bundle up! Your future self (and your doctor) will thank you.
Tip: Slow down when you hit important details.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You're Curious)
How to avoid an epiglottitis-related demise? Simple - stay warm and dry, and see a doctor if your throat feels like it's trying to swallow your head.
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How to make a gargle that doesn't involve questionable dairy products? Stick with warm salt water, my friend. It's a classic for a reason.
Tip: Focus on one point at a time.
How to ride a horse heroically without catching a chill? Maybe invest in a decent cloak, George.
How to rewrite history and give Washington some modern medicine? Unfortunately, time travel hasn't been invented yet (as far as we know).
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
How to honor George Washington's memory? Learn from his (well-meaning, but misguided) weatherproofing mistakes, and maybe brush up on your American history while you're at it.
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