The Fake Formosan - Stuff That I Find Interesting

The transcript discusses a man who falsely claimed to be from Taiwan, gaining popularity in England. Despite challenges to his identity due to his pale skin and accent, he fabricated stories about Taiwanese culture, including cannibalism and sun worship. His criticism of Catholic Jesuits and association with Jonathan Swift increased his popularity. Eventually, he admitted the hoax, but his reputation remained largely untarnished. His past attempts to claim different identities in other countries were unsuccessful, but he found an audience in England.

What unusual behavior did the man exhibit to convince others of his foreign origins?

• He spoke multiple European languages fluently.

• He created a fictional language and ate raw meat.

• He dressed in traditional Taiwanese clothing.

• He performed traditional Taiwanese dances.

What was one of the sensational claims made in the man's book about Taiwanese culture?

• The Taiwanese were known for their advanced technology.

• The Taiwanese practiced cannibalism and sun worship.

• The Taiwanese were skilled in martial arts.

• The Taiwanese had a unique form of government.

How did the man further enhance his popularity in England?

• By criticizing the Catholic Jesuits.

• By supporting the Catholic Jesuits.

• By writing poetry about England.

• By becoming a politician.

What happened to the man's reputation after he admitted his deception?

• He was imprisoned for fraud.

• His reputation remained largely intact.

• He was exiled from England.

• His reputation was completely destroyed.

In which countries did the man previously attempt similar hoaxes?

• Italy and the Netherlands

• Sweden and Norway

• Spain and Portugal

• France and Germany