Timeline of incidents involving QAnon

QAnon

Timeline of Incidents Involving QAnon

The Timeline of Incidents Involving QAnon chronicles significant events and occurrences related to the QAnon conspiracy theory, which emerged on the internet in 2017. Originating from anonymous posts on internet forums, QAnon encompasses a wide range of unfounded allegations, including the baseless claim that a secret cabal of Satan-worshipping pedophiles is ruling the world and plotting against Donald Trump, who is seen as the world's savior from this cabal. This timeline highlights the impact of QAnon on public events, criminal activities, and its infiltration into political spheres.

2017

• October: QAnon begins with a post on the 4chan message board by an individual claiming to have Q-level security clearance in the U.S. government, hinting at the existence of a global conspiracy.

2018

• March: The first known QAnon-related criminal incident occurs when an armed individual blocks the Hoover Dam bridge with an armored vehicle, demanding the release of a report supposedly exposing the cabal.

2019

• December: A QAnon supporter is arrested after threatening to kill Joe Biden, then a presidential candidate, citing QAnon beliefs as his motive.

2020

• October: QAnon followers play a significant role in spreading misinformation about the COVID-19 pandemic, including false claims about vaccines and lockdown measures.
• November: Several candidates who have expressed support for QAnon theories are elected to Congress, marking the movement's growing influence in American politics.

2021

• January 6: QAnon supporters are prominently involved in the United States Capitol attack, with individuals wearing QAnon insignia and flags.
• July: The FBI labels QAnon a domestic terrorism threat due to its potential to incite extremist violence.

2022

• Throughout the year: QAnon's influence wanes in mainstream social media but persists in smaller platforms and continues to impact local political events and public health responses.

Impact

The timeline of incidents involving QAnon demonstrates the significant and often dangerous influence of conspiracy theories on public events, political discourse, and individual actions. The movement has been linked to numerous criminal activities, including terrorism, threats against public officials, and public disturbances. Its role in spreading misinformation about the COVID-19 pandemic has also been a major public health concern.

See Also

• Conspiracy theories in the United States
• Internet and politics
• Political extremism in the United States