Episode 11:  The History of Halloween - From Demon Turnips to Sexy Corn Costumes (A Cultural Decline)

EPISODE · Nov 5, 2025 · 39 MIN

Episode 11: The History of Halloween - From Demon Turnips to Sexy Corn Costumes (A Cultural Decline)

from Well, THAT Happened!: A History Podcast · host Christina Sirignano

Ancient Celts thought the dead literally walked on Samhain, so they carved demon turnips and wore scary costumes for protection. Christians rebranded it as All Hallows' Eve. Irish immigrants brought it to America where "give us treats or we'll vandalize your house" became organized trick-or-treating. Candy companies saw dollar signs. Now we spend $10 billion annually on sexy corn costumes and fun-size Snickers. We went from "genuine supernatural terror" to "inflatable Snoopy lawn decorations." The Celts would be so confused.

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Episode 11: The History of Halloween - From Demon Turnips to Sexy Corn Costumes (A Cultural Decline)

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