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Hookah smoking in colonial Calcutta

Hookah smoking began in the royal courts of Mughal India, and like many other local customs, it was readily adopted by British colonials in the 18th century as a symbol of wealth and status.

  • Article

The rise and fall of a medical mesmerist

Uncover the fascinating story of the doctor who popularised hypnotism as a medical technique, and could name Dickens among his famous friends.

  • Article

Deadly doses and the hardest of hard drugs

The invention of the modern hypodermic syringe meant we could get high – or accidentally die – faster than before. Find out how this medical breakthrough was adapted for deadly uses.

  • Article

The work of wet-nursing

Many of us know that in the past, babies were sometimes nourished by wet-nurses. But, perhaps surprisingly, the practice continues today – and the milk recipients are not only babies.

All stories (34)

Images

  • Edinburgh's + week 1918 / [City of Edinburgh branch of the British Red Cross Society].
  • Edinburgh's + week 1918 / [City of Edinburgh branch of the British Red Cross Society].
  • The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh.
  • Royal Humane Society: medals of the society
  • The history and statutes of the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh.
  • Philosophical transactions / Royal Society of London.
  • Philosophical transactions / Royal Society of London.
  • Philosophical transactions / Royal Society of London.
  • Royal Society of Medicine 1991/92 year planner.
  • Journal of the Royal Agricultural Society of England.
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