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Though modern scientists recognize mercury as a harmful environmental pollutant and one of the world's most dangerous elemental toxins, mercury was once considered a wondrous substance capable of eradicating internal disease, revolutionizing the paint and cosmetics industries and even entertaining the masses as part of amateur magic tricks and witch doctor scams. This work traces the history of mercury in popular culture, beginning in the early eighteenth century when Dr. Thomas Dover, nicknamed ""Dr. Quicksilver,"" began prescribing doses of raw mercury to clear out intestinal blockages and r

"This work traces the history of mercury in popular culture, beginning in the early 18th century when Dr. Thomas Dover, nicknamed "Dr. Quicksilver," began prescribing doses of raw mercury to clear out intestinal blockages and rid the body of syphilis and other diseases. The author details the role of mercury in several medical, industrial, and cultural applications"--Provided by publisher.