What did 19th-century Americans die of?
In the 19th century, diseases that are relatively uncommon today were major causes of death in the United States. Infectious diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and tuberculosis, often referred to as "consumption" in historical records, were rampant and claimed numerous lives. Poor sanitation and limited medical knowledge contributed to the spread of these diseases. Diarrhea, usually resulting from contaminated water or food, was also a significant cause of mortality. These ailments were particularly devastating in crowded urban areas, where living conditions were cramped and unhygienic. In this gallery, we examine the 'Mortality of the United States' 1860 census report, providing intriguing insights into how individuals met their demise during this era. If you are curious, click on and explore the most common ways people died in 1800s America.
2023-11-07T14:08:59Z
