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Stuff You Should Know · June 20, 2026 · 49m

Selects: Birthmarks: Probably Not the Mark of the Devil

Josh and Chuck explore the long and often strange history of birthmarks. From ancient times to today, humans have come up with a variety of explanations for these skin markings, some of them harmless folklore and others genuinely dangerous superstitions. In this classic episode, they look at which of those old beliefs still persist and what birthmarks really are.

This summary was generated from show notes and public descriptions, not from a full transcript review. Details may contain inaccuracies.

Highlights

Birthmarks Have Inspired Centuries of Myths
People have been trying to explain birthmarks since before recorded history, resulting in a huge range of wacky and sometimes dangerous superstitions.
The 'Mark of the Devil' and Other Dangerous Beliefs
Some historical ideas about birthmarks had real and harmful consequences for people born with them.
Old Birthmark Folklore Still Persists Today
Despite modern medicine, some old wives' tales about birthmarks are still floating around.

Misc

This is a 'Selects' episode, a re-airing of a classic Stuff You Should Know episode.
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