In 1887, journalist Nellie Bly faked insanity to go undercover inside a New York asylum. What she witnessed—neglect, cruelty, and systemic abuse—became one of the most powerful exposés of the 19th century. This week, we dive into her daring investigation and the real conditions behind the walls of Blackwell’s Island.

Source Materials:

How Nellie Bly became a Victorian sensation and changed journalism forever | Vox

The woman who exposed 19th-century New York’s inhumane treatment of mental health patients | The Independent | The Independent

Nellie Bly: The Journalist Who Pretended To Be Insane To Get Into A Mental Asylum

Remembering Nellie Bly, Rabblerouser and Pioneer of Investigative Journalism

Ten Days in a Madhouse: The Woman Who Got Herself Committed

Nellie Bly: The Journalist Who Traveled Around the World in 72 Days | TheCollector

Nellie Bly - Story, Timeline & Facts

Biography of Nellie Bly, Investigative Journalist

Ten Days in a Mad-House.

Nellie Bly: Scourge of the Asylums and Globetrotter Extraordinaire - Historic Mysteries