The Original Snake Oil Salesman
The Story
Clark Stanley, the 'Rattlesnake King,' sold 'Stanley's Snake Oil' as a cure-all for everything from back pain to rheumatism. He was a master showman who would 'slay' a rattlesnake in front of crowds and process the fat into his liniment. In reality, the product was primarily mineral oil, beef fat, and red pepper. It became the archetype for all future 'miracle cure' scams.
🚩 Red Flags
- Claims of being a 'miracle cure' for diverse ailments
- Reliance on theatrical demonstrations over science
- Secret or 'ancient' formula
- No medical or scientific evidence
- Single charismatic promoter
⚖️ The Fallout
In 1917, the U.S. government seized a shipment and prosecuted Stanley under the 1906 Pure Food and Drug Act, finding his product contained no snake oil and was fraudulently marketed. The term 'snake oil salesman' entered the lexicon.
📚 Lessons Learned
Established the template for health fraud. Led to increased regulation of medical claims. Showed the power of a good story over actual efficacy.
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