Crime Salad Weird History (Bonus): The Town That Danced Itself to Death
Jul 7, 2025
In the summer of 1518, the town of Strasbourg was gripped by a bizarre epidemic of uncontrollable dancing. Starting with one woman, the phenomenon spread, ultimately affecting hundreds and resulting in tragic consequences. Different theories arise—could it be mass hysteria, ergot poisoning from moldy bread, or a religious frenzy? This strange historical event sheds light on how societal pressures can lead to collective madness, inviting listeners to ponder the mysteries of human behavior through time.
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The Deadly Dancing Plague of 1518 Explained
In the summer of 1518, a mysterious and deadly phenomenon struck Strasbourg: people began dancing uncontrollably for days, some even dying from exhaustion, strokes, or heart attacks.
Authorities initially thought it was a medical issue related to "hot blood" and encouraged more dancing, building stages and hiring musicians, which only worsened the outbreak.
Historians and scientists consider three main theories for this bizarre event:
- Ergot poisoning from moldy rye causing hallucinations and convulsions
- Mass psychogenic illness (mass hysteria) triggered by famine, disease, and religious anxiety
- A religious or spiritual crisis linked to the belief in a curse by Saint Vitus, patron saint of dancing
Despite centuries of debate, the true cause remains unsolved, making it one of history's strangest medical mysteries.
Frau Tofria's Endless Dance
- Frau Tofria started dancing erratically in Strasbourg with no music or party around.
- She danced non-stop for days, sparking dozens, then hundreds, to join in the deadly dance.
Medical Advice Made It Worse
- Officials misdiagnosed the dancing as "hot blood" and prescribed more dancing as treatment.
- They even built a stage and hired musicians, which worsened the deadly dancing outbreak.