The following installment of The Dark Archive contains descriptions of child abuse of both a physical and sexual nature. Listener discretion is strongly advised.

In the 1980s, a wave of hysteria swept through the United States as people became convinced that a vast Satanic conspiracy was at work, corrupting and abusing children. This phenomenon, known as the Satanic Panic, led to numerous high-profile cases of alleged Satanic ritual abuse. But how much of this panic was based in reality, and how much was just a product of fear and hysteria?

In this episode, we explore the history of the Satanic Panic, from its origins in the early 80s, to its eventual decline in the 90s, to how it’s coming back in the modern day. We also take a closer look at some of the most famous cases of the Satanic Panic, including the McMartin preschool trial.

Finally, we reflect on the legacy of the Satanic Panic and the lessons we can learn from this troubling episode in American history. We consider the harm caused to innocent people and the damage done to the credibility of law enforcement and child protection agencies, and we explore the broader implications for our society today. Whether you’re a fan of true crime or simply interested in the social and cultural history of the United States, this episode is sure to provoke thought and discussion. So tune in as we separate fact from fiction and try to make sense of the Satanic Panic of the 80s.

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Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satanic_panic
https://www.nytimes.com/2021/03/31/us/satanic-panic.html
https://www.npr.org/2021/05/18/997559036/americas-satanic-panic-returns-this-time-through-qanon
https://www.vox.com/culture/22358153/satanic-panic-ritual-abuse-history-conspiracy-theories-explained
https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/internet/satanic-panic-making-comeback-fueled-qanon-believers-gop-influencers-rcna38795
http://law2.umkc.edu/faculty/projects/ftrials/mcmartin/girl12testimony.html
https://www.businessinsider.com/pg-puts-moon-in-new-logo-despite-satanist-accusations-2013-5#1991-so-pg-decided-to-straighten-the-man-in-the-moons-hair-5
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McMartin_preschool_trial