Mmm Mmm Mercury

Smithsonian Magazine (6/2004) on "Doctor" Lewis' Thunderclappers

"...Since the men were plagued with gastrointestinal problems from their nearly all-meat diet and from drinking muddy river water, the pills—which were nearly 60 percent mercury—were freely dispensed. While they may not have cured any illnesses, the thunderclappers have served archaeologists well: traces of mercury remain in the soil along the Corps of Discovery's route, and some expedition campsites have been identified by excavating corps latrines..."

The history of medicine is fascinating and horrifying. Kids, do not try this at home.

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