The Jonestown Massacre
Today is the 30th anniversary of the Jonestown massacre, in which 900 followers of the Reverend Jim Jones committed mass suicide by drinking poisoned flavor-aid. The delivery mechanism for the poison was widely and erroneously reported to be kool-aid, which gave rise to a new metaphor for unthinking attachment to a dogma or a leader.
Jim Jones was a charismatic preacher whose stirring oratory led many to follow and obey him without question or reservation. He preached a message of social justice, economic equality, hope, and change. Before the tragedy, he was praised and admired by many public figures, including first lady Rosalyn Carter. Just because a message is appealing doesn't mean the messenger is a good man. Human nature remains what it is.
Here is a video containing footage of Jim Jones and his followers:
Jim Jones was a charismatic preacher whose stirring oratory led many to follow and obey him without question or reservation. He preached a message of social justice, economic equality, hope, and change. Before the tragedy, he was praised and admired by many public figures, including first lady Rosalyn Carter. Just because a message is appealing doesn't mean the messenger is a good man. Human nature remains what it is.
Here is a video containing footage of Jim Jones and his followers:
I remember seeing a video of Martin Luther King speaking once, back in high school history class, and being reminded of Hitler speaking. I was surprised myself. The only thing they had in common was both being very charismatic speakers!