Conspiracy and Triumph

Conspiracies have always been part of American culture, but with the rise of social media has come an increase in belief in nontraditional explanations of events. This book highlights a subset of conspiratorial beliefs that grew in popularity in the early 21st century. These beliefs and the growing cynicism of the media have left conspiracy theorists with deep distrust of those in authority. A number of theories that have arisen over the years are explored. From QAnon beliefs regarding the United States government to UFO reports and other hidden agendas, it is clear that we continue to challenge old ways of thinking.

Aaron John Gulyas is a history instructor at Mott Community College in Flint, Michigan, where he specializes in the modern United States and American military history.

Aaron John Gulyas

Format: softcover (6 x 9)
Pages: 209
Bibliographic Info: notes, bibliography, index
Copyright Date: 2021
pISBN: 978-1-4766-8076-7
eISBN: 978-1-4766-4550-6
Imprint: McFarland

Acknowledgments vi
Prologue 1
Chapter 1. Conspiracy Theory 101 9
Chapter 2. NESARA—White Knights, Dark Agendas, and the Appeal to Greed 33
Chapter 3. The UFO Disclosure Movement 80
Chapter 4. QAnon 128
Epilogue 171
Chapter Notes 175
Bibliography 189
Index 201

• “Though there are many books on conspiracy theories, this study’s focus on three positive or triumphalist conspiracy theories—the National Economic Stabilization and Recovery Act (NESARA), the UFO Disclosure Movement, and QAnon—is unique. … Gulyas, an expert on conspiracy theories, lucidly describes these murky theories in this thoroughly researched account….recommended”—Choice