Which Popular Conspiracy Theory Came First?

Conspiracy theories have played a significant role in conflicts from the 17th century Indian wars to the Gilded Age labor battles, the American Revolution, and the War on Terror. These theories attempt to explain harmful or tragic events as the result of the actions of a small powerful group, rejecting the accepted explanations. Although many Americans believe that conspiratorial thinking is reaching new heights in the twenty-first century, conspiracy theories have been commonplace throughout the U.S. The origins of the modern conspiracy theory can be traced back to the Illuminati, which became the bogeyman for dark forces at work in the world.

Academic research into conspiracy theories has only emerged in the 1930s, with the earliest conspiracy theory in British history. From the Salem witch trials to fears of the Illuminati, the Red Scare, and QAnon, conspiracy theories have always served as dark counter programming to the prevailing societal issues. They have legitimized violence, impaired public health, and undermined democratic governance. Containing their harms begins with various theories, such as the dead internet conspiracy theory, 9/11 Conspiracies, Princess Diana’s murder, subliminal advertising, the Moon landing hoax, and Paul McCartney’s conspiracy theories.