Anatomy of a Conspiracy
The QAnon Phenomenon
What is QAnon?
QAnon is a sprawling and entirely unfounded far-right conspiracy theory which alleges that a cabal of Satan-worshipping pedophiles is running a global child sex-trafficking ring and plotted against former U.S. President Donald Trump, who they believe was fighting to expose them.
The narrative was seeded by an anonymous online poster or group of posters known as "Q" on the 4chan message board in October 2017. Q claimed to be a high-level government official with "Q clearance," hence the name.
U.S. Adults' Familiarity with QAnon (Illustrative)
Timeline of a Digital Cult
October 2017: The First "Drop"
The first post by "Q" appears on the /pol/ board of 4chan, beginning the narrative of "The Storm" - a supposed upcoming mass arrest of high-profile figures.
November 2017: Migration
"Q" moves to 8chan (later 8kun) after 4chan becomes hostile to the posts. This new home allows the community to grow with less moderation.
2018-2020: Mainstream Infiltration
The theory spreads across mainstream social media like Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. Adherents begin appearing at political rallies with Q-related signs and apparel.
January 6, 2021: Real-World Eruption
QAnon followers play a significant role in the attack on the U.S. Capitol, driven by the false belief that the election was stolen as part of the "cabal's" plan.
Post-2021: A Fractured Movement
After key predictions fail to materialize, the movement splinters. While the central "Q" figure is silent, the underlying conspiratorial beliefs adapt and persist on platforms like Telegram.
Core Beliefs
The Cabal
A secret, global elite of Satanic, cannibalistic pedophiles, primarily consisting of Democratic politicians, Hollywood celebrities, and business leaders.
The Storm
A prophesied event where thousands of cabal members will be arrested, tried by military tribunals, and executed.
The Great Awakening
A moment when humanity will be freed from the cabal's control, ushering in an era of peace and prosperity, led by Donald Trump.
Web of Influence
QAnon is not a single entity but a decentralized network of figures, platforms, and ideas that reinforce each other. This chart illustrates the key players and their interconnected roles in spreading the narrative.
From Online to the Real World
The QAnon phenomenon did not remain online. The theory has been cited as a motivation for numerous real-world crimes, harassment campaigns, and political violence, demonstrating the dangerous potential of online misinformation.
QAnon-Related Incidents vs. Online Mentions (Illustrative Data)
