Ridiculous History CLASSIC: Attack of the Aswang: How the CIA Used Vampires as Weapons of War
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May 31, 2025 Dive into the eerie world of the Aswang, a legendary Filipino vampire, as the CIA exploits its mythology for psychological warfare. Discover how folklore became a tool to instill fear and manipulate local beliefs during the Cold War. The hosts share their childhood fears and examine the captivating myths surrounding the Aswang, while raising ethical questions about the dark arts of PSYOPs. They also discuss fascinating legends like Yamashita's Gold, blending humor and horror in a bizarre historical narrative.
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Aswang: Multifaceted Philippine Monster
- The Aswang is a pantheon of shapeshifting monsters from Philippine folklore with terrifying traits.
- It symbolizes deep cultural fears, embodying creatures that eat unborn children and use dark powers like doppelgangers.
Guerrilla Warfare Demands Innovation
- Guerrilla warfare challenges traditional armies because enemies blend into civilians; unconventional methods become necessary.
- Lansdale exploited local superstitions to craft innovative psychological strategies against rebels.
Power of Psychological Warfare
- Psychological operations aim to intimidate enemies through fear and misinformation rather than direct violence.
- Edward Lansdale’s campaigns showed how rumors and supernatural fears could be weaponized effectively in war.
