There was a time when the lower classes of the American South were considered lazy and dimwitted, a stereotype that still somewhat survives today. But this stereotype was rooted in fact. Hookworms, it turns out, were sapping Southerners’ life force. Find out all about it in this classic episode. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This episode of Stuff You Should Know talks about the strange and fascinating quirk of nature and geography that changed the course of history - the Trojan Horse. It details the various theories and the most likely scenario surrounding the famous Greek story.
This episode explores the world of hookworms which are considered the most interesting parasitic worms on the planet. They are unique in appearance and have a surprising impact on global health.
This podcast discusses the journey of hookworms through the human body, beginning at the feet and ending in the lungs and intestines. While they can cause health issues, hookworms are a fascinating example of a parasite's ability to survive inside a host.
This episode discusses the history of night soil, which involves collecting human feces and using it as fertilizer, and the dangers of using human feces in comparison to animal manure as fertilizers.
Up to 40% of the population in the American South, from southeastern Texas to West Virginia, was infected with hookworm at one point, and it was almost impossible to avoid if you were poor and lived in the South.
An animal expert educated in Europe claimed that the lazy stereotype of the South was caused by hookworms transmitted through feces, but was dismissed as a carpet bagging Yankee by locals.
John D. Rockefeller and wealthy industrialists of his era attempted to combat income inequality by funding projects aimed at helping southern communities. However, they faced opposition in the south and were hesitant to address root problems within the capitalist system.
The Rockefeller Foundation launched a campaign to get children in schools in the South on board to raise awareness about hookworms and educate their parents as well.
This podcast episode features discussions on unique camping experiences with hookworm tents, as well as a physician's hookworm studies.
About 740 million people around the world have hookworm infections, with pregnant women being one of the worst groups affected. The theory is that parasitic worms prevent the human immune system from overreacting.
A couple thanks the podcasters for inspiring them to turn their hobby into following them around the country for live shows.
Check out "Let's Start a Coup" for a tale of ambition and treason, "Navigating Narcissism" for stories of healing from toxic relationships, and "Main Accounts" for a history of MySpace.