History is often shaped by a few monumental moments, but there are countless lesser-known events that have had a massive impact on the world. These obscure yet shocking occurrences might not be in the forefront of our textbooks, but their influence continues to ripple through time. From ancient wars to strange medical discoveries, here are five historical events that you’ve probably never heard of – but definitely should. #1. The Dancing Plague of 1518 Imagine a city overtaken by a seemingly uncontrollable urge to dance, with hundreds of citizens collapsing from exhaustion or even death. This bizarre phenomenon actually occurred in Strasbourg, France , in the summer of 1518. What began with one woman dancing erratically in the streets quickly escalated, as dozens joined her in what was described as a dance mania. Historians are still unsure of the cause, with theories ranging from mass hysteria to poisoning by ergot, a type of mold that grows on damp rye and can cause hallucinations.