How Hatmakers Really Did 'Go Mad' 300 Years Ago

The expression 'mad as a hatter' is based from the real-life behavior of hatters from the 17th century. It turns out that the process they used to make their hats was poisoning them and driving them insane. It wasn't until 1941 that hatters discovered what was causing them to behave so strangely.

[edwardkasato]

That explains Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland"

[amalrafidah]

ummm reading all the effects and I'm thinking, have I had mercury poisoning too? the only effect I didn't have was death... not yet at least

[hidrocalidogallero]

WELCOME TO YOUTUBE
WHERE 9 DIFFERENT PEOPLE ARE FIRST

[PLANDerLinde]

Well, I won't really change much if exposed to that Mercuric Nitrate, I'm already shy, Have low self confidence, Depression, Apathy and irritability, The only thing I don't have is death.

[Freshcornpop]

The symptoms sound like today's teeneagers

[crosswire]

Most incredible story ever. I'm so amazed. Who made this video? Give em a raise, this is just pure talent.

[maxrodgar]

1:02 I think I've been inhaling some mercury

[eduardobrandwaiman]

Edward Kasab That's right. And as for the March Hare also being mad, the scientific explanation is simply this: March is mating seaon for hares and they become very aggressive when it arrives.

[jess.J]

Wow I had no idea. Once again, thank you Tech Insider!!

[meltingice]

So the effects is the same thing with acutane.

[ephraimshofar]

After reading the symptoms I just realized that I too am a Mad Hatter...

[tanzaniteblueeye]

Is it possible that autism is older than we think?
Many say its not caused by vaccins but it is hereditary.
Lots of people where exposed to heavy metals in medevil Times and victorian time and could possible have autisme.

[apoorvsahai]

0:51- When she sucks the soul out of you.

[cameronfink]

So that, kids, is why you never let things go to your head

[elenac]

I know it's irrelevant, but where's the music from? it's actually pretty good for just backround music.

[thesoul]

Also people with mecury alograms from dentist

[eegbujd]

and i thought this was only real in the movies where superheros get mind controlled and turn psycho

[RottenRroses]

I'm not a hat maker but except for (not yet) death I identify with all the symptoms.

[DubzCo]

Here from Johnny Depp, that guy is a wealth of knowledge

[TypOnomIcon]

I've had mercury poisoning this whole time. Who knew