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  • Today I found an audio recording of the Jonestown Massacre. It contains the voice of cult leader Jim Jones speaking to over 900 people as they stood in line to drink Flavor Aid poisoned with cyanide and Valium. Parents killed their children first, then themselves. The recording also includes the voices of the adults declaring their loyalty to Jones as they arrived at the table to drink, and the screams of the children being forced to swallow the poison can be heard in the background. I've known about the incident for years, but I never realized there was a recording of it.

    It's not something I post here lightly, and it's certainly not recommended listening for everyone. The tape is chilling and sinister. You may listen to it here, or read the transcript. I found it morbidly fascinating as a study on how leaders can psychologically manipulate people, and worth linking to here for posterity and educational purposes, as depressing as it may be.

    July 22, 2007

  • I've heard that, u, and remember when it happened. Absolutely horrifying. Always was and always will be.

    July 22, 2007

  • Children? Sometimes, words are inadequate.

    July 22, 2007