The Not-So-Serene Passing of Our First Prez: How Did George Washington Kick the Bucket?
George Washington. The man, the myth, the legend... and also, the guy who couldn't quite seem to cheat death. We all know he wasn't immortal (shocker, right?), but how exactly did the cherry tree feller and wig aficionado meet his maker? Well, buckle up, history buffs, because it's about to get a little weird.
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| How George Washington Died |
The Great Sneeze heard 'Round the Colonies (Probably Not, But It Sounds Dramatic)
December 1799. Mount Vernon. Our founding father isn't feeling tip-top. A sore throat? A tickle in his fancy breeches? No one is entirely sure, but George starts feeling like he swallowed a rogue snowball. Being a leader and all, he ignores it at first. Big mistake. Because next thing you know, it's full-blown laryngitis with a side of difficulty breathing.
Bloodletting: Because What Could Possibly Go Wrong?
Enter the medical professionals of the era, armed with leeches, questionable diagnoses, and a whole lot of enthusiasm for bloodletting. That's right, they drained poor George of over 30 ounces of blood! Think of all the things you could buy with that much blood in the 18th century! Maybe a nice tricorn hat? Unfortunately, it didn't do much for George's health.
Farewell, Farewell, and Adieu (Also, Can Someone Open a Window?)
Despite heroic efforts (mostly on George's part for enduring all that), the night of December 14th, 1799, wasn't kind. George Washington passed away at the age of 67. The official cause of death? Well, that's a bit of a mystery. Some say it was croup, others argue epiglottitis. Whatever the culprit, it certainly wasn't a happy ending.
Reminder: Take a short break if the post feels long.
Moral of the story? Don't ignore a sore throat, kids. And maybe hold off on the whole bloodletting thing. Just a suggestion.
Frequently Asked Questions (Because We Know You're Curious)
How to avoid dying from a sore throat?
See a doctor if your sore throat worsens or doesn't improve after a few days. Leave the bloodletting to the history books.
QuickTip: Skim first, then reread for depth.
How did people treat illnesses in George Washington's time?
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Let's just say modern medicine has come a long way. Think more along the lines of questionable herbal remedies and lots of bloodletting.
Can you visit Mount Vernon?
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Absolutely! It's a great place to learn more about George Washington's life (and, ahem, death).
Did George Washington wear a wig?
Yes, indeed! Wigs were all the rage in 18th-century America.
QuickTip: Scroll back if you lose track.
Should I be worried about ghosts at Mount Vernon?
Well, George's spirit may not be chilling the halls, but the history sure is!
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