Hystoriah explores the fascinating, unsettling phenomenon known as mass hysteria. And there is plenty to explore — written accounts of mass-hysteria episodes date back to the 7th century at least, and manifestations of this dis-ease (often called “mass psychogenic illness” in scientific literature) can vary widely — even as cases share commonalities.

I’m a writer and researcher, not an academic or trained historian. I’m learning as I go, so if you are an expert in any point I raise, or have other knowledge that can shed light on the topic at hand — in other words, if you want to support or clarify or vehemently disagree with anything I’ve written — please share your thoughts in the comments area!

About me: My editorial background is a bit eclectic — news journalism, nonprofit communications, science writing, and more. Published titles include three books for young readers: Martin Luther King Jr.: Fulfilling a Dream, The Muckrakers & Progressive Reformers, and Navigating Filter Bubbles (all from Cavendish Square Publishing).

I love learning about history as well as human psychology and sharing what I’ve learned — hence this blog, which I hope you enjoy.