Marshall Applewhite: The Cult Of Heaven's Gate

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No one could have predicted the strange circumstance of the mass suicide of thirty-nine people that happened on March 26, 1997 in San Diego, California. To fully understand the bizarre case that is the cult of Heaven’s Gate one must first go back before the group was founded and understand the creator and self proclaimed prophet that was Marshall Applewhite. Marshall Applewhite was born on May 17, 1931, in Spur, Texas. Through the help of his second wife Bonnie Nettles they created a strange cult called Heaven’s Gate which brought the unfortunate deaths of thirty-nine men and women. The strange religious cult drew inspiration from science fiction movies and writings, as well as biblical scripture. One science fiction series in particular drew the attention of the group. In …show more content…

Before Heaven’s Gate Applewhite was a failed actor in New York City who later became a music teacher. Many people say he was a very good public speaker who impressed people with his voice and careful word choice. After his failure in New York Applewhite then became an assistant professor at the University of Alabama, there he served as the choirmaster for many groups. After his teachings in Alabama, Applewhite traveled back to Texas and joined the music department at a university in Houston. While living in Houston Applewhites social life took a drastic turn for the worst. He and his wife divorced in 1964 and Applewhite left Ann alone with their two children. Many people agree that he seemed to be having an intense nervous breakdown caused by the deterioration of his failing marriage. It was reported by people close to him that he also might have struggled with his sexuality which could have put a strain on or ended his marriage. The only seemingly logical option left for Applewhite was to quit his job and run away, so that's exactly what he

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