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Eclipse brings awe and theories -
Photos by Gary Henry The total solar eclilpse, pictured left, occurred on April 8. The photo on the right is shortly after the totality when the diamond ring appeared.
There was a total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. Even though the path was limited, millions of people were able to experience the event.
Besides the people who lived in the path of the eclipse, many people drove from out of town to be able to witness this once-in-a-blue-moon event. People from all over the country drove to Texas and Arkansas to get a front row seat to the eclipse.
There were travelers from California, Wisconsin and Montana - some even traveled from Canada. One family drove cross country to witness the event because it’s “something that doesn’t happen very often.”
Along with the upcoming eclipse, there were also multiple theories that came with the event. One theory that made its way through the internet was that the eclipse was going to bring on a massive human sacrifice. The earthquake in New York only fueled this theory.
Other theories were that “elites” were going to use the eclipse to control humanity, sway the presidential election and other ideas. Some believed that the eclipse was a sign of the end of days.
Why did the eclipse bring so many theories? The rarity and incredible event like a total solar eclipse leaves mankind feeling small and helpless. It also brings out the fear of the unknown. Realizing that mankind isn’t in control of everything and the fear of losing the earth’s only source of natural light, heat and energy conjures up theories and apocalyptic scenarios in people’s minds.
As far as anybody knows, none of those theories came to light during the eclipse. It was only a source of awe and wonder to anybody who was able to behold it. Even the animals voiced their sense of wonder. There were reports all over Marshall County about cows, sheeps and dogs being extremely vocal during the eclipse.