13 Superstitions That Actually Came From True Events
Superstitions are often dismissed as silly or strange, but many have surprising roots in real-life events. Behind some of the most well-known beliefs are historical facts, cultural fears, or tragic incidents that shaped how people see the world. These stories show there's more truth to some old sayings than we might think.
- Tricia Quitales
- 4 min read
Superstitions have been passed down for generations, shaping behaviors in ways people often don’t understand. While they may seem irrational today, many began with real events that caused fear or caution. This article explores 13 widely known superstitions that actually started because of true stories, historical events, or natural disasters. Learning their origins makes these odd beliefs a little easier to understand and a lot more interesting.
1. Walking Under a Ladder
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This superstition traces back to ancient Egypt, where a triangle was seen as sacred. A ladder leaning against a wall formed a triangle, and passing through it was thought to break its spiritual power. Later, Christians also avoided it because it symbolized the ladder at Christ’s crucifixion.
2. Friday the 13th
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The fear of this date connects to the mass arrest of the Knights Templar on Friday, October 13, 1307. Many were tortured or executed, and the event became seen as cursed. Over time, this grim history mixed with the unlucky number 13 created the superstition.
3. Breaking a Mirror Brings 7 Years of Bad Luck
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Ancient Romans believed mirrors reflected not just your face but your soul. If one broke, they thought your soul would be damaged for seven years, the time it took to renew itself. The belief stuck, and mirror-breaking is still feared today.
4. Opening an Umbrella Indoors
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In Victorian England, umbrellas were made with stiff metal parts that could cause injury indoors. People began to say opening them inside brought bad luck, mostly to prevent accidents. Over time, the safety warning turned into a full-blown superstition.
5. Black Cats Bringing Bad Luck
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In the Middle Ages, black cats were linked to witches and thought to be their animal companions. Seeing one was believed to be a sign of dark magic or evil. This superstition led to the persecution of both cats and people suspected of witchcraft.
6. Spilling Salt Means Trouble
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In ancient times, salt was valuable and hard to get, so spilling it was considered wasteful and unlucky. The belief grew stronger when it was linked to Judas Iscariot, who supposedly spilled salt at the Last Supper. People began tossing salt over their left shoulder to ward off the devil.
7. Knocking on Wood for Luck
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This comes from ancient pagan beliefs that spirits lived in trees. People would knock on wood to wake or thank these spirits for protection or good fortune. The practice continues today, even if the reason is mostly forgotten.
8. The Evil Eye
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Cultures around the world believed that a strong glare from someone could bring harm, illness, or bad luck. This idea likely started with real experiences of envy or conflict that led to misfortune. Amulets and charms were created to protect people from such negative energy.
9. Horseshoes for Good Luck
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Blacksmiths were once considered lucky, and horseshoes, made of iron, were believed to ward off evil. Hanging a horseshoe over a door was meant to bring safety and fortune. The tradition began in Europe and spread globally over time.
10. Number 13 Being Unlucky
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Some believe the number 13 is unlucky because of Norse mythology, where a 13th guest at a dinner led to a god’s death. Others trace it back to religious texts or tragic events involving 13 people. The fear grew so strong that some buildings skipped the 13th floor altogether.
11. Throwing Coins into Fountains
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Romans used to toss coins into water as offerings to the gods for safe travel. The tradition stayed alive and turned into a wish-making habit. The act of tossing a coin now feels like fun, but it began with deep spiritual meaning.
12. Itchy Palms Mean Money
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In ancient folklore, an itchy right palm meant money was coming in, while the left meant you would lose it. The idea likely came from a mix of old beliefs and early trade practices. It’s still popular today, especially in casual conversation.
13. Full Moons Cause Strange Behavior
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Many believed that full moons triggered madness or strange actions, a belief that dates back to ancient Greece and Rome. The term “lunatic” comes from “luna,” the Latin word for moon. Though science hasn’t confirmed it, the full moon still carries a mysterious reputation.