EPISODE · Mar 2, 2025 · 25 MIN
The Tanganyika Laughter Epidemic
from A Popular History of Unpopular Things · host Kelli Beard
Join Kelli as she goes over the history behind the Tanganyika Laughter Epidemic, an event that started with three schoolgirls in late January 1962 and spread to nearby villages. It took roughly 18-24 months for the epidemic to finally stop, and luckily, nobody died.It was determined that this was a case of mass psychogenic illness - the more modern name for "mass hysteria."But how did it start? Why schoolgirls in Tanganyika in early 1962? Let's look to the historical context to get an understanding of what happened here and why.And a special thanks to one of my cannibal patrons, Zack, for recommending this episode! Intro and Outro music credit: @nedricmusicFind him on all streaming services and YouTube!http://www.nedricmusic.com Support the showIntro and Outro music credit: Nedric | Yello KakeFollow me on Instagram for episode updates! @beardhistoryIf you want to support the show, donate to the cause at Buy Me a Coffee
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Join Kelli as she goes over the history behind the Tanganyika Laughter Epidemic, an event that started with three schoolgirls in late January 1962 and spread to nearby villages. It took roughly 18-24 months for the epidemic to finally stop, and luckily, nobody died. It was determined that this was a case of mass psychogenic illness - the more modern name for "mass hysteria." But how did it start? Why schoolgirls in Tanganyika in early 1962? Let's look to the historical context to get an under...
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The Tanganyika Laughter Epidemic
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