Ever felt like you’ve heard all the dark historical secrets? You know, the ones that make you raise an eyebrow, maybe even gasp a little? Well, buckle up, because today we’re diving into a fact so jarring, so utterly unbelievable, it might just redefine your definition of ‘dark history.’
What if I told you that less than a century ago, a government somewhere actually issued official licenses to hunt people?
Yeah, you read that right. I stumbled across a Reddit post recently that highlighted this truly grim chapter: in South Africa, the government once gave out actual licenses to hunt indigenous people, specifically the San (also known as Bushmen). And here’s the kicker: the very last one was issued in 1936.
The Unbelievable Truth: Licenses to Kill
It’s the kind of fact that makes you do a double-take, spill your coffee, and then frantically Google to make sure it’s not some elaborate hoax. But alas, it’s true. For generations, starting in the colonial era, the San people were systematically dehumanized and targeted. Seen as obstacles to expansion and ‘civilization,’ they were treated not as human beings, but as vermin or game to be eradicated.
Imagine that. A piece of paper, officially sanctioned by the state, giving someone permission to track, hunt, and kill another human being. It’s a stark, chilling reminder of the depths of cruelty and dehumanization that can take root when power goes unchecked and prejudice runs rampant.
A Dark Stain on History
How does something so monstrous even come to pass? Well, it’s a chilling cocktail of colonialism, land hunger, and the systematic denial of humanity. The San, with their deep connection to the land and their hunter-gatherer lifestyle, were seen as inconvenient by European settlers pushing for agricultural and pastoral expansion.
This wasn’t just random violence; it was a state-sanctioned, bureaucratic horror. These ‘licenses’ weren’t just symbolic; they were part of a calculated effort to clear land and eliminate what was perceived as an ‘impediment’ to colonial progress. It’s a stark example of how legal frameworks can be twisted to justify unimaginable atrocities.
The Resilience of the San People
Despite this horrific past, the San people, one of the oldest human populations on Earth, have endured. Their rich culture, ancient knowledge, and unique way of life continue to survive against incredible odds. They are a testament to human resilience in the face of unimaginable oppression.
It’s a sobering thought, isn’t it? This piece of history forces us to confront the uncomfortable truths of our past and recognize the dangers of dehumanization. It’s not about dwelling in despair, but about learning from these dark chapters to ensure such atrocities are never, ever repeated.
So, the next time you think you know history inside out, remember the San people and those chilling licenses. It’s a powerful lesson that sometimes, the most unbelievable stories are the ones we absolutely need to hear.