Matthew James Crawford, “The Andean Wonder Drug: Cinchona Bark and Imperial Science in the Spanish Atlantic, 1630-1800” (U. Pittsburgh Press, 2016)

Matthew James Crawford, “The Andean Wonder Drug: Cinchona Bark and Imperial Science in the Spanish Atlantic, 1630-1800” (U. Pittsburgh Press, 2016)

Imagine a world where the cure for a deadly disease lies hidden in the bark of a tree. In this episode of 'New Books in Drugs, Addiction and Recovery', host Marshall Poe sits down with Matthew James Crawford to discuss his book, 'The Andean Wonder Drug: Cinchona Bark and Imperial Science in the Spanish Atlantic, 1630-1800'.

This fascinating conversation takes you back to the eighteenth century, exploring how the Spanish Empire grappled with controlling the cinchona tree and its precious bark, known for its medicinal properties. Crawford delves into the intertwined histories of science, technology, and medicine, revealing how local Andean remedies transformed into valuable imperial resources. The episode also highlights the significant role of indigenous healers and the complexities of conducting imperial science in local contexts.

Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about the roots of modern medicine, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era where nature and empire collided.