Whether it’s from TV shows like Doomsday Preppers or someone thinking about their “crazy uncle,” preppers get a bad name.
Many times, however, preppers predicted future events. They may not know all the details, but they certainly are more prepared than the average citizen. We’d do well to learn from the past so we can avoid being caught off-guard in the future.
We’ve put together a list of some scenarios that preppers saw coming; maybe it will inspire you to be a little more prepared, just in case.
1. The 2008 Financial Crisis
Many preppers had been warning about an impending financial collapse, and in 2008, their fears were realized. The global financial crisis led to massive economic downturns, validating those who had stocked up on essentials and diversified their assets.
2. Natural Disasters Disrupting Daily Life
Preppers have long stressed the importance of being ready for natural disasters. Hurricanes Katrina, Sandy, and the 2011 Japanese tsunami proved them right as millions were left without power, clean water, and basic supplies.
3. Global Pandemic
Preppers predicted a global pandemic long before COVID-19 struck. Their emphasis on stockpiling food, masks, and medical supplies turned out to be prudent as the world faced shortages and lockdowns.
4. Cyber Attacks on Infrastructure
Warnings about cyber attacks on critical infrastructure came true with events like the 2017 WannaCry ransomware attack, which affected hospitals and businesses worldwide, and the 2021 Colonial Pipeline hack that disrupted fuel supplies in the U.S.
5. Political Instability Leading to Civil Unrest
Preppers have cautioned about political instability leading to civil unrest. The 2020 protests and riots in the U.S., as well as global movements like the Arab Spring, demonstrated the validity of these concerns.
6. Grid Failures
Preppers’ warnings about grid failures were realized during the 2021 Texas power crisis. Millions were left without electricity and heat during a severe winter storm, highlighting the need for alternative power sources.
7. Food Supply Chain Disruptions
The COVID-19 pandemic caused significant disruptions to the food supply chain, something preppers had long anticipated. Panic buying and empty shelves underscored the importance of having a stockpile of essential goods.
8. Increases in Extreme Weather Events
Preppers have been concerned about the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events. Recent years have seen record-breaking wildfires, hurricanes, and heatwaves, emphasizing the need for disaster readiness.
9. Water Contamination Issues
Preppers have warned about the vulnerability of water supplies. Incidents like the Flint water crisis and boil-water advisories in various cities proved the importance of having access to clean, safe water.
10. Economic Disruptions from Trade Wars
The trade war between the U.S. and China led to economic disruptions, validating preppers’ concerns about global trade instability and its impact on prices and availability of goods.
11. Rising Home Invasion Rates
Preppers often emphasize home security. Rising rates of home invasions and burglaries in various parts of the world have underscored the importance of being prepared to protect oneself and one’s family.
12. Government Surveillance
Warnings about increased government surveillance have come true with the rise of sophisticated monitoring technologies. Edward Snowden’s revelations about NSA activities brought these concerns to the forefront.
13. Economic Inequality Leading to Social Tension
Preppers have highlighted the dangers of widening economic inequality. The growing divide between the rich and poor has led to increased social tensions and unrest, validating their concerns.
14. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities
The COVID-19 pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in global supply chains, something preppers had been warning about for years. Shortages of essential items like toilet paper and medical supplies became commonplace.
15. Increased Frequency of Cyber Crime
Preppers’ concerns about cyber crime were validated by the rise in ransomware attacks, identity theft, and data breaches affecting millions of people and numerous organizations worldwide.
16. Financial System Vulnerabilities
Concerns about the vulnerabilities of the financial system were proven accurate during events like the 2010 Flash Crash and the 2021 GameStop short squeeze, which revealed how fragile financial markets can be.
17. Political Polarization
Preppers have long warned about increasing political polarization. Recent elections and political events have shown deep divisions within countries, leading to instability and conflict.
18. Rising Costs of Living
Warnings about the rising costs of living have come true as inflation rates soar and the prices of housing, healthcare, and education continue to climb, making everyday life more challenging for many.
19. Resource Scarcity
Concerns about resource scarcity have been validated as water shortages, peak oil, and the depletion of minerals become more pressing issues, affecting global economies and everyday life.
20. Pandemics Affecting Travel
Preppers predicted that a major pandemic would severely impact global travel. COVID-19 led to unprecedented travel restrictions, grounded flights, and border closures, proving them right.
21. Bioterrorism Threats
Warnings about bioterrorism have come to light with events like the 2001 anthrax attacks in the U.S., highlighting the need for preparedness against biological threats.
22. Economic Fallout from Natural Disasters
Preppers have stressed that natural disasters can have significant economic fallout. Events like Hurricane Harvey and the California wildfires have caused billions in damages, validating these concerns.
23. Food Price Inflation
Concerns about food price inflation were realized during the COVID-19 pandemic, as supply chain disruptions and increased demand led to rising prices for groceries and other essentials.
24. Civil Liberties Erosion
Preppers have warned about the erosion of civil liberties in the name of security. The passage of laws like the Patriot Act and increased surveillance measures post-9/11 have validated these fears.
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Old wives’ tales have been passed down through generations, often dismissed as mere superstition. However, many of these age-old beliefs are rooted in truth. From health tips to weather predictions, these stories from the past can surprise us with their accuracy. Here are 17 old wives’ tales that are actually true.
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Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
