Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Yellow Rain
Jul 17, 2019
The podcast delves into the mysterious 'yellow rain' phenomenon reported by the Hmong people after the Vietnam War. Initially thought to be a toxic chemical weapon, it sparked debates over biological warfare. The discussion reveals how scientific analysis suggests it may actually be honeybee excrement. Investigations highlight the Hmong's plight and political struggles, showcasing their resilience amid a complex historical backdrop. Tales of refugee camps and media coverage add depth to this gripping narrative of intrigue and survival.
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Yellow Rain Reports
- After the Vietnam War, Southeast Asian people, especially the Hmong, noticed a sticky yellow rain.
- This rain killed plants and made people sick, leading to suspicion of a biological weapon.
Initial Suspicions and Skepticism
- The U.S. Secretary of State, Alexander Haig, initially claimed the yellow rain was a Soviet-supplied mycotoxin weapon.
- Biologist Matt Messelson questioned this, noting the impracticality of using hollowed-out pollen as a dispersal method.
Bee Poop Theory
- Messelson suggested the yellow rain was actually bee poop, specifically from giant Asian honeybees.
- This was based on the presence of hollowed-out pollen, which these bees excrete after consuming the protein inside.