Lore Lore 297: Bloody
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Jan 12, 2026 Dive into the darker sides of folklore, where storytelling intersects with violence. Explore chilling tales, like the tragic murder of individuals with albinism in East Africa, and the infamous blood libel myth that fueled centuries of persecution. Discover how historical events shaped cultural narratives, including the connections between anti-Semitism and Dracula. Uncover the sinister motives behind the accusations in the Little Hugh of Lincoln case and the lasting impact of these narratives on modern society.
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Modern Murder Driven By Superstition
- Whitney Chalumpha, a two-year-old with albinism, was murdered in 2016 for superstitious reasons in East Africa.
- Aaron Mahnke uses her case to show folklore-driven violence against vulnerable people continues today.
Folklore Can Be Weaponized
- Folklore can be weaponized to reinforce racist, sexist, ableist, or anti-Semitic stereotypes.
- Aaron Mahnke highlights 'evil folklore' as stories that precipitate real-world harm when repeated and institutionalized.
Little Hugh And Weaponized Rumor
- In 1255 Lincoln, England, little Hugh's death sparked blood libel accusations that led to arrests and executions.
- Mahnke details how confessions, torture, and political motives amplified the tragedy into profitable mythmaking.
