What are the leading theories about Edgar Allan Poe’s cause of death?

The death of Edgar Allan Poe in 1849 remains an unsolved mystery, with several competing theories regarding the cause of his demise.1

Prominent Theories

• Alcoholism: Long considered the most likely cause, some contemporaries believed Poe died from complications of alcohol withdrawal or a drinking binge. However, his attending physician, John Moran, maintained that Poe had not been drinking, and the progression of his final illness was inconsistent with withdrawal.1
• Rabies: A medical theory suggests Poe may have suffered from rabies. This is supported by his fluctuating delirium and reported difficulty swallowing water, a classic symptom of the disease.1
• Cooping: This theory posits that Poe was a victim of electoral fraud. In the 19th century, "cooping" involved gangs forcing victims to vote multiple times for specific candidates, often using alcohol or violence to ensure compliance. This could explain why Poe was found in a polling place wearing clothes that were not his own.1
• Medical Conditions: Various other causes have been proposed, including diabetes, heart disease, epilepsy, and tuberculosis.1