Decapitation of the Union

[Wild Bill]

You all left out the late Rick Stelnick's contention in "Dixie Reckoning" that Booth was a great user of "blue mass," which allegedly addled his mind. But then there were dozens of such "patent medicines" in the 19th century, of various ingredients and efficacy, one of the more common being Laudanum (whiskey, opium, and whatever else the producer thought might give it a special kick). The Civil War generation, on and off the battlefield, was known for its addictions. It is often blamed on the terrible, painful wounds suffered in battle, but there was more to it than that, judging from the civilian use. It was not until TR and his generation passed the Pure Food and Drug Act (1906?) that the present prohibitions came into effect. Remember that original Coca Cola was a mild form of cocaine.