What's Happening?
A sepia photo circulating online, purportedly showing the Philadelphia Phillies' first mascots from 1883, has been debunked. The image, featuring individuals in Halloween costumes, originated from Ossian Brown's 2010 photobook 'Haunted Air,' which includes
photos from 1875 to 1955. The Phillies' first official mascot, the Phillie Phanatic, debuted in 1977. The photo's misattribution highlights the spread of misinformation on social media, where historical inaccuracies can gain traction.
Why It's Important?
This incident underscores the challenges of verifying historical claims in the digital age, where misinformation can easily proliferate. It highlights the importance of critical evaluation and fact-checking in preserving historical accuracy. The case serves as a reminder of the need for media literacy and the role of platforms in curbing the spread of false information.
