Stuff They Don't Want You To Know CLASSIC: The 2001 Anthrax Letter Attacks: Who was actually responsible?
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Oct 20, 2025 The podcast delves into the chilling anthrax letter attacks shortly after 9/11, exploring the mysterious figure of scientist Bruce Ivins, who was deemed responsible. It unpacks the biological aspects of anthrax, the complexities of weaponization, and the extensive FBI investigation dubbed Amerithrax. Doubts about Ivins's sole involvement spark discussions of alternate theories, including foreign terrorists and potential government cover-ups. Expert critiques further complicate the narrative, leaving listeners to ponder who really might be behind the attacks.
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Anthrax Basics And Transmission
- Anthrax is a spore-forming bacterium that can kill when inhaled and exists in cutaneous, gastrointestinal, and pulmonary forms.
- Pulmonary anthrax is the deadliest and was the primary concern in the 2001 letter attacks.
Scope Of The 2001 Attacks
- Letters containing anthrax spores were mailed starting September 18, 2001, targeting media outlets and U.S. senators.
- Seventeen people were infected and five died, making this an internationally significant bioterror incident.
Death Of Robert Stevens
- A photo editor at American Media, Robert Stevens, opened an envelope and inhaled anthrax powder, later dying from inhalational anthrax.
- His computer keyboard also tested positive for anthrax during a follow-up investigation.