# The Time a Zoo Mistook a Human for an Ape—And Put Him on Display, How Ketchup Was Once Sold as Medicine, and How the CIA Tried to Use Psychic Spies

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/weird-history-7381598/the-time-a-zoo-mistook-a-human-for-an-ape-and-put-him-on-display-how-ketchup-was-once-sold-as-medicine-and-how-the-cia-tried-to-use-psychic-spies
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/weird-history-7381598/the-time-a-zoo-mistook-a-human-for-an-ape-and-put-him-on-display-how-ketchup-was-once-sold-as-medicine-and-how-the-cia-tried-to-use-psychic-spies.md
Podcast: [Weird History](https://stenobird.com/podcast/weird-history-7381598)
Published: 2026-06-12T12:07:41+00:00
Episode link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/brandonbates619-us3/episodes/The-Time-a-Zoo-Mistook-a-Human-for-an-ApeAnd-Put-Him-on-Display--How-Ketchup-Was-Once-Sold-as-Medicine--and-How-the-CIA-Tried-to-Use-Psychic-Spies-e3kmqkl
Audio file: https://traffic.megaphone.fm/APO8500051971.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/weird-history-7381598/episodes/the-time-a-zoo-mistook-a-human-for-an-ape-and-put-him-on-display-how-ketchup-was-once-sold-as-medicine-and-how-the-cia-tried-to-use-psychic-spies
Duration seconds: 1380

## Resource

https://www.FKNpods.com In this episode of "Weird History," we delve into the bizarre lengths institutions have gone to when driven by misunderstanding, pseudoscience, or desperation. First, we explore the ethically questionable decision of a zoo in the early 20th century, which displayed a human as an exhibit, blurring the lines between curiosity and exploitation. Next, we travel back to the 19th century when ketchup was marketed as a medicinal cure, highlighting the intersection of marketing, medicine, and public gullibility. Lastly, we uncover the CIA's strange foray into psychic espionage during the Cold War, illustrating the extremes of governmental experimentation in the name of national security. Each story in this episode serves as a testament to the absurdity of institutional actions that defy logic and reason. From a zoo's misguided attempt at education to the marketing of ketchup as a health remedy, and the CIA's psychic spy program, we reveal moments when the unexpected became reality. Join us as we unravel these comical yet thought-provoking tales that remind us of the unpredictable nature of human behavior and the peculiar paths history can take when driven by unusual beliefs or pressures. 🔒 Subscribe now for full access to all our video podcasts. Unlock exclusive bonus content and everything on The Forbidden Knowledge Network. 👉 https://www.patreon.com/theforbiddenknowledgenetwork 🎧 Search The Forbidden Knowledge Network wherever you listen to podcasts. #WeirdHistory #BizarreTales #HistoricalOddities #StrangeInstitutions #UnbelievableStories

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