The most common ways to die in 1800s America
Diarrhea: Yes, diarrhea is a symptom rather than a disease, but back in the 1800s the word.
Diarrhea: According to the census report, 7,850 people died of diarrhea in 1860.
Whooping cough: Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a really contagious respiratory disease.
Whooping cough: According to the 1860 census, 8,408 people died of whooping cough in America.
Convulsions: Back then, convulsions was an umbrella term used to describe any condition that caused spasms.
Convulsions: These were often more fatal in children (especially in newborns and those under age one).
Cephalitis: Cephalitis is what we know today by encephalitis.
Cephalitis: Cephalitis, also known as "brain fever" back then, was responsible for the death of 10,399 Americans in 1860.
Dysentery: Unlike "diarrhea" as a generic term, dysentery is an actual condition, that indeed causes diarrhea.
Dysentery: Infection can be prevented by washing one's hands after using the toilet.