Old school CPR

[RobertLC]

I just re-read Leale’s 1865 account of arriving in the State Box and the immediate treatment that he provided to Lincoln. I did not find any mention of the treatment that Brooks identified. I also looked at Leale's letter to Dudley and found no comments about what you have included. Moreover, I re-read Taft’s 1865 account and found no mention of that procedure.

Leale, however, did mention, in his February 1909 speech to the Military Order of the Loyal Legion of the United States, the actions that Brooks identified. Quite a change, over 44 years, from his 1865 report, or so I think. Perhaps his memory had been tarnished by time or perhaps he had, by then, realized the importance of his role in treating Lincoln. Also, it is possible that in his 1865 account, Leale just failed to mention the artificial respiration, but that seems strange that he would not.

In general, Leale was very quiet over the years about his attending to Lincoln. But, in my opinion, his 1909 report is certainly more elaborate and perhaps even more self-serving than his original 1865 account.

I apologize that my response does not address your CPR question, but nevertheless, Leale’s account(s) are important.

Bob