In Defense of the Apocalypse
The article discusses the recurring theme of apocalyptic beliefs in American society. It highlights a historical instance from 1694 when a group of German monks predicted the end of the world in Philadelphia. The piece suggests that these doomsday narratives may hold a certain value in contemporary culture.
- ▪The world has been perceived as ending multiple times throughout American history.
- ▪In 1694, a group of German monks predicted the apocalypse in Philadelphia.
- ▪This group, led by Johannes Kelpius, is considered America's first doomsday cult.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Society & Culture Autumn Christian / May 23, 2026 In Defense of the Apocalypse In America, the world is always ending. Maybe that’s a good thing. Four Horsemen of Apocalypse, 1887. (Photo via Glinka National Museum Consortium of Musical Culture, Moscow) Four Horsemen of Apocalypse, 1887. (Photo via Glinka National Museum Consortium of Musical Culture, Moscow) Audio Turn any article into a podcast. Upgrade now to start listening. Text Size Members can share articles with friends & family to bypass the paywall. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Threads Email 0 Open and scroll to the comments section The world is always ending. And in 1694, the apocalypse was set for the new millenium in the valley of the Wissahickon Creek in Philadelphia.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Dispatch.
