The Fake Formosan - Stuff That I Find Interesting

The transcript discusses a man who falsely claimed to be from Taiwan, gaining popularity in England. Despite challenges to his identity due to his pale skin and accent, he fabricated stories about Taiwanese culture, including cannibalism and sun worship. His criticism of Catholic Jesuits and association with Jonathan Swift increased his popularity. Eventually, he admitted the hoax, but his reputation remained largely untarnished. His past attempts to claim different identities in other countries were unsuccessful, but he found an audience in England.

What was the reaction of the audience to his stories over time?

What were some of the claims he made about his background?