Ridiculous History CLASSIC: The Story of Max, South Africa's Famous, Crime-fighting Gorilla
Dec 7, 2024
Meet Max the gorilla, who became an unexpected crime-fighter in South Africa, captivating audiences with his heroic antics. His rise to fame during the troubled 1990s provided a beacon of hope amid the struggles against apartheid. The podcast also delves into gorillas' majestic lives and the historical context that shaped their world. Intriguingly, Max's story intertwines with broader themes of justice, community resilience, and the complex dynamics of the fight for equality, inviting reflections on heroism in an unjust society.
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Robber Jumps Into Max's Pen
- A fleeing robber named Isaac Mofokeng vaulted into Max the gorilla's pen and was bitten and pinned by Max.
- Police intervened, were injured, and Max was shot but survived after being anesthetized and treated.
A Gorilla Became A Symbol Of Justice
- Max's act of defending his enclosure became a powerful symbol during Johannesburg's crime wave in the 1990s.
- The gorilla's celebrity filled a public desire for visible justice amid chaotic post-apartheid violence.
Max's Commercial Stardom
- Max received commercial endorsements, including drinks and corporate sponsorships, and had stuffed toys made in his likeness.
- He posed for photos, devoured a cake-and-fruit trophy, and became a paid local celebrity.