George Washington's False Teeth: An Unconventional Guide to the Eighteenth Century  

Robert Darnton, a master historian known for his luminous prose and insightful explorations of the past, offers a truly captivating journey into the heart of the eighteenth century with *George Washington's False Teeth: An Unconventional Guide to the Eighteenth Century*. This isn't a dry recitation of facts; instead, Darnton uses the often-overlooked details of everyday life – from the scandalous to the mundane – to illuminate the complex social, cultural, and intellectual currents of the era. Through a series of engaging essays, he unpacks the lives of ordinary people and the celebrated figures alike, revealing the surprising realities that shaped their world and, by extension, our own. *George Washington's False Teeth* rightfully claims its place among Darnton's best works for its signature blend of meticulous scholarship and compelling narrative. Darnton’s ability to transform seemingly trivial objects and anecdotes into profound historical revelations is unparalleled. He demonstrates how even something as personal and peculiar as a president's dental woes can unlock a deeper understanding of societal norms, anxieties, and the very construction of identity in the Age of Enlightenment. For anyone seeking a more textured, vivid, and truly human portrait of this pivotal historical period, this book stands as an essential and unforgettable read from one of history's most brilliant storytellers.