In the early 1970s, a fear of poisoned Halloween candy emerged, rooted not in fact but in social anxieties, revealing the influence of rumors on cultural traditions.
An op-ed in The New York Times in 1970 ignited concerns about poisoned treats, posing chilling rhetorical questions that blurred the line between fact and fear.
The tragic story of the Houston 'candyman killer' in 1974 intensified fears around Halloween, despite the lack of widespread incidents involving tainted candy.
The media's portrayal of isolated incidents led to a hysteria about Halloween safety, showcasing how narratives can shape public perception and behavior.
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