Would you rather have lived in Washington in 1806 or in 1853?

Answer 1

6 years to go to the War of 1812 and British trying to retake the American colonies and burning the White House

or 7 years until the Civil War, the bloodiest war in our history, with most per capita deaths in the world

Medical "science" in either era was pretty poor, closer to superstition than any "science." George Washington died listening to traditional doctors. No draft in 1812, Lincoln had a draft for his Civil War. The 2nd female doctor Mary Walker served in the Union Army in the Civil War. She was 2nd to graduate from an American medical school.

More slavery in 1806 than 1853, maybe, but closer to freedom in 1853. Women were also a little closer to a little more equality in 1853

1806 has some advantages over 1853, It's a draw, overall, depending on who you were though. Both were close to the Dark or Darker Ages, compared to today.