TED-Ed: The dark history of zombies | Christopher M. Moreman

The video explores the origins of zombies, tracing their roots to African cultures where they were linked to spirits and ancestors. It discusses how the concept evolved in Haiti, symbolizing the horrors of enslavement. The US occupation of Haiti altered the portrayal of zombies, leading to their depiction in Western media as flesh-eating monsters. Over time, zombies became a tool for social commentary, highlighting issues like consumerism and disaster preparedness.

Which African culture uses the term 'zombie' to refer to a supreme being or ancestor?

• Zulu

• Swahili

• Kikongo

• Mitsogo

In Haitian culture, what does zombification symbolize?

• A form of eternal life

• A way to gain superhuman abilities

• A representation of eternal enslavement

• A path to spiritual enlightenment

What significant change occurred in the portrayal of zombies during the US occupation of Haiti?

• Zombies were linked to devil worship

• Zombies were shown as victims deserving sympathy

• Zombies were depicted as heroes

• Zombies were portrayed as mindless laborers

Which film is credited with linking zombies to an insatiable craving for flesh?

• Return of the Living Dead

• 28 Days Later

• Night of the Living Dead

• White Zombie

How did American pop culture initially alter the original significance of zombies?

• By portraying them as heroes

• By associating them with aliens

• By transforming them into flesh-eating monsters

• By linking them to spiritual enlightenment