Power Corrupts Voodoo, Vampires, and General Butt Naked
May 9, 2019
Join historian Ronald Hutton and author Natalie Wodajik as they delve into the intriguing intersections of magic and politics. Discover why a Liberian rebel leader fought naked, armed only with talismans. Learn how voodoo myths helped fend off a U.S. invasion of Haiti. Plus, hear the chilling account of a journalist nearly mistaken for a vampire in a rural village. This fascinating discussion reveals how supernatural beliefs shape conflict, foreshadow history, and continue to impact contemporary society.
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Global Political Impact of Magic
- Belief in magic and supernatural has deep political impacts globally, far beyond Madagascar or Africa.
- These beliefs often shape government responses and power legitimacy in intense ways.
The Rise and Fall of Witch Belief
- Belief in witchcraft historically caused real harm, supported by popular and legal tests despite lacking rational basis.
- The decline of witch belief took centuries, showing how belief systems evolve socially and politically.
Matthew Hopkins' Witch Hunt
- Matthew Hopkins, a dying man in 17th century England, led a brutal witch hunt killing over 100 people.
- His witch hunts flourished due to the collapse of government during the English Civil War.
