This week on Hashtag History, we are discussing the Heaven's Gate cult. They were/are a religious cult centered around the idea that God is an extraterrestrial being and that, in order to reach the highest level (what they call “the next level”) was to be swept up by a Comet.

The most tragic part about this story though is that, in 1997, 39 cult members (including their leader, Marshall Applewhite), were found to have committed suicide in order to attain this “next level”, making it the largest mass suicide on US soil. 

In this Part One special, we will be covering the background of both of the leaders, Marshall Applewhite and Bonnie Nettles, a deep look into the followers, and how the death of Nettles would change everything.

And then stay tuned for next week's Part Two conclusion episode where we will dig into all of the tragedy.

Follow Hashtag History on Instagram @hashtaghistory_podcast for all of the pictures mentioned in this episode.

Citations for all sources can be located on our website at HashtagHistory-Pod.com. You can also check out our website for super cute merch!

Finally, you can locate us on Patreon.com/hashtaghistory where you can donate $1 a month to our Books and Booze Supply. All of your support goes a long ways and we are endlessly grateful! To show our gratitude, all Patreon Supporters receive an automatic 15% OFF all merchandise in our merchandise store!

THANKS FOR LISTENING!

- Rachel and Leah