Voodoo might be one of the most misunderstood religious traditions in the world. This unique combination of traditional West African spirituality and Roman Catholicism has been slandered for centuries as an evil form of black magic. This dark reputation was reinforced by pulpy articles written by white authors in the 19th century, sensationalizing voodoo rituals. These unflattering depictions of voodoo have coloured the way many have perceived the life and legacy of New Orleans’ most famous voodoo practitioner, the Voodoo Queen, Marie Lavaeu. But what did a Laveau voodoo ritual actually look like? Tune-in and find out how snake whispering, a cursed wedding, and “frightful orgies” play a role in the story.

Works Cited

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