In the annals of American history, the late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed a surge of apocalyptic cults, each anticipating the imminent end of the world. From the Millerites and the Great Disappointment to the Branch Davidians and their fiery siege in Waco, these groups captivated the nation's attention with their doomsday prophecies, attracting followers from all walks of life. Yet, as the predicted dates of destruction passed without incident, these cults faced the harsh reality of their failed predictions, leaving behind a legacy of shattered hopes and a cautionary tale about the allure of extremism.
