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Medicine in Virginia, 1607-1699   By: (1905-)

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Medicine in Virginia, 1607-1699 by Thomas Proctor Hughes delves deep into the early years of colonial Virginia, specifically focusing on the state of healthcare during that time. Hughes brilliantly captures the challenges and triumphs that pioneers of medicine faced in an era when modern medical advancements were virtually non-existent.

One of the most striking aspects of Hughes' work is his meticulous research and attention to detail. Through extensive primary source analysis and the examination of various historical documents, he successfully reconstructs the medical practices prevalent in Virginia during the seventeenth century. Not only does this provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of the medical landscape of the time, but it also enables us to appreciate the immense dedication and resourcefulness displayed by medical professionals of that era.

Hughes skillfully highlights the various influences that shaped medical practice in colonial Virginia. He explores the significant role played by the English College of Physicians and the Royal College of Surgeons, shedding light on how medical knowledge was disseminated and integrated into the developing society. Additionally, he examines the impact of Native American healing traditions, offering readers a nuanced understanding of how indigenous knowledge was both embraced and altered by the English settlers.

One of the book's greatest strengths lies in Hughes' ability to illustrate the immense challenges faced by healthcare practitioners of the time. Whether it is the scarcity of medical supplies, the lack of formal medical training, or the devastating impact of unfamiliar diseases introduced by Europeans, Hughes masterfully brings to life the adversities that shaped the medical landscape during this period. These vivid descriptions evoke a profound sense of empathy and admiration for the early medical pioneers who persevered in the face of such overwhelming odds.

However, while the book excels in its detailed account of medical history, it occasionally becomes overwhelming for readers less familiar with the subject matter. Hughes assumes a certain level of pre-existing knowledge and familiarity with seventeenth-century Virginia, which may prove challenging for those without a background in the subject. Additionally, the book's dense prose at times feels rather academic, making it less accessible to a wider audience.

In conclusion, Medicine in Virginia, 1607-1699 by Thomas Proctor Hughes is a meticulously researched and thought-provoking exploration of the state of healthcare during the early years of colonial Virginia. Hughes' in-depth analysis of the medical landscape, his attention to detail, and his ability to convey the challenges faced by medical practitioners of the time make this book a valuable resource for historians and scholars alike. Despite its occasionally dense prose and assumed prior knowledge, it remains a commendable contribution to the field of medical history.

First Page:

MEDICINE IN VIRGINIA, 1607 1699

By

THOMAS P. HUGHES

Assistant Professor of History, Washington and Lee University

VIRGINIA 350TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION CORPORATION WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA 1957

COPYRIGHT©, 1957 BY VIRGINIA 350TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION CORPORATION, WILLIAMSBURG, VIRGINIA

Second Printing, 1958

Third Printing, 1963

Jamestown 350th Anniversary Historical Booklet, Number 21

[Transcriber's Notes: Research indicates the copyright on this book was not renewed.

The Table of Contents was not printed in the original text but has been added here for the convenience of the reader.]

CONTENTS

CHAPTER ONE European Background and Indian Counterpart to Virginia Medicine 1

CHAPTER TWO Disease and The Critical Years At Jamestown 12

CHAPTER THREE Prevalent Ills and Common Treatments 31

CHAPTER FOUR Education, Women, Churchmen, and The Law 60

CHAPTER FIVE Conclusion 73

Acknowledgements and Bibliographical Note 77

CHAPTER ONE

European Background and Indian Counterpart to Virginia Medicine

EUROPEAN BACKGROUND

The origins of medical theory and practice in this nation extend further than the settlement at Jamestown in 1607... Continue reading book >>




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