Jonathan Letterman-- Part 3: Advancements in Medicine

Continuing with the presentation of Gordon Dammann at the March 12 meeting of the McHenry County Civil War Round Table.

The first recorded use of anesthesia was 1847.  Chloroform and ether were used during the war.

During the Mexican War, rank was given to surgeons.

Bull Run was a complete mess for casualties.  Some remained on the field of battle for as many as two weeks.  There was no ambulance system at the time.

In 1862, Letterman joined the Army of the Potomac.  He immediately set out on reforms, including triage, evacuation and field hospitals.

During the Seven Days Battles there were 17,000 casualties.  Hospital ships were used and they had them all out in two weeks.

Ambulances got springs and ambulance crews had training.

Improving Chances of Survival--Old Secesh