metamitya ·
Remnants of the Tartarian Empire: A Photo Journey
• Colin Dickey's book, "Land of Delusion," investigates the strange realm of conspiracy theories, particularly the mythical Tartarian Empire, which theorists claim was a global civilization destroyed by malevolent forces.
• The book emphasizes that even the most absurd conspiracy theories can have significant political and cultural impacts, referencing works like Jesse Joyce's "Killing the Guys Who Killed the Guy Who Killed Lincoln."
• Dickey recounts his visits to locations linked to the Tartarian Empire, such as the Chicago and San Francisco World’s Fairs, which conspiracy theorists cite as proof of the empire's existence.
• In Chicago, he explores the site of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, where proponents argue that archival images validate the existence of the Tartarian Empire, allegedly erased from history.
• The only surviving structure from the Chicago Expo is the Palace of Fine Arts, now part of the Museum of Science and Industry, while the original Statue of the Republic was demolished in 1965.
• Dickey points out how conspiracy theorists often misinterpret artistic elements as concrete evidence, such as claiming large doors suggest the Tartarians were giants.
• His research includes a visit to a Chicago dive bar, where he samples the local drink Malört, reflecting his efforts to engage with local culture.
• In San Francisco, he investigates remnants of the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Exposition, another site of interest for Tartarian conspiracy theorists, including the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium.
• Dickey interviews Annalee Newitz, author of "Four Lost Cities," who offers a realistic view on the decline of civilizations, contrasting sharply with the fantastical Tartarian narratives.
• "Land of Delusion" is available exclusively on Everand as an ebook and audiobook, addressing the increasing mainstream acceptance of conspiracy theories discussed in online communities.
• Colin Dickey is a noted writer and academic specializing in unusual histories and artifacts, with several published works, including "Ghostland" and "The Unidentified."