Historical Events tagged with "mental health"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Health & Medicine

Publication of Alcoholics Anonymous 'Big Book'

April 10th, 1939 85 years ago

The first edition of Alcoholics Anonymous's foundational text, known as the 'Big Book', was published in 1939. Written primarily by Bill Wilson, one of the co-founders of the organization, the book shared personal stories and insights into alcoholism, recovery, and the principles of the A.A. program. It was a crucial step in formalizing the movement's approach to helping individuals struggling with alcohol addiction and spread beyond the initial New York city circles to a broader audience seeking recovery.

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Health & Medicine

Founding of Alcoholics Anonymous in Akron

June 10th, 1935 89 years ago

Dr. Robert Smith took his last drink, marking a pivotal moment in the journey to recovery from alcoholism. This personal transformation led him to meet Bill Wilson, who shared similar struggles. Together, they laid the groundwork for Alcoholics Anonymous in Akron, Ohio, establishing a fellowship aimed at helping others overcome alcohol addiction. The organization emphasized mutual support and understanding among its members, profoundly influencing addiction recovery methods across the globe.

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Health & Medicine

Kraepelin Names Alzheimer's Disease

July 15th, 1910 114 years ago

Emil Kraepelin, a prominent psychiatrist, published 'Clinical Psychiatry' where he named Alzheimer's disease in honor of his colleague Alois Alzheimer. This publication laid the groundwork for understanding and categorizing various mental disorders, including dementia. Through this work, Kraepelin recognized the crucial connection between clinical observation and the classification of diseases, significantly impacting psychiatry.

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Crime & Law

Karl Emil Malmelin Axes Down Seven Victims

May 10th, 1899 125 years ago

Karl Emil Malmelin, a Finnish farmworker, committed an assault at the Simola croft in Klaukkala, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals using an axe. The attack shocked the small community and raised questions about the motives behind such a violent act. Investigations revealed complex social tensions affecting Malmelin's life, contributing to his severe actions.

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Arts & Culture

Vincent van Gogh's final moments and demise

July 27th, 1890 134 years ago

Vincent van Gogh, a renowned painter, shot himself in the chest in a wheat field in Auvers-sur-Oise, France. Following the incident, he was able to return to the inn where he was staying, receiving medical attention. Despite the efforts, Van Gogh succumbed to his injuries two days later, on July 29, 1890. His last words were reported to have been about the happiness of the countryside and expressing his wish for his brother Theo. This event marked the tragic end of a tumultuous life and career.

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Crime & Law

Final Witchcraft Trial in Salem

May 14th, 1878 146 years ago

In Salem, Massachusetts, Lucretia Brown accused Daniel Spofford of using mental powers to inflict harm, triggering the last witchcraft trial in the United States. This unusual trial centered around Brown's belief in Christian Science, leading to legal proceedings that evoked historical perceptions of witchcraft and spiritual beliefs. It ultimately sparked debates on the intersection of science, religion, and law during that era.

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Health & Medicine

Christopher Smart's Admission to Asylum

May 6th, 1757 267 years ago

Christopher Smart, an English poet, was admitted to St Luke's Hospital for Lunatics in London where he began a six-year stay. His mental health struggles were exacerbated by his financial and personal difficulties, leading to this confinement. Smart was known for his passionate poetry, especially 'Jubilate Agno,' which reflects his deep religious sentiments and philosophical musings despite the turmoil in his mind.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Henry VIII Injured in Jousting Accident

January 24th, 1536 489 years ago

King Henry VIII suffered a life-altering jousting accident that led to severe injuries, including a suspected brain injury. The incident occurred during a tournament at Greenwich, when his horse collided with the opposing knight's horse, throwing him to the ground. The effects of this injury are believed to have influenced his unpredictable behavior and health issues in the subsequent years, including claims of impotence. This accident not only affected his personal life but also had wider implications for his reign.

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