The Netflix documentary Chaos: The Manson Murders is based on convicted murderer Charles Manson and his cult during the early 1970s. It explores possible theories as to how Manson was able to manipulate his followers and turn them into killers.
This year is the 55th anniversary of the Charles Manson trial, which shocked people across the nation. The documentary follows Manson’s life from 1967 until he was arrested in 1971.
Manson built his cult at the height of the ’60s hippie movement. He was able to collect a small number of followers, mostly girls.
One question that the documentary raises is how did Manson learn how to manipulate people.
The documentary suggests it might have been during an earlier time in prison, or through the use of the drug LSD. But another possibility, the film says, is that the CIA was involved in a mind control and behavior project called MK-Ultra at the time, and Manson and some of his followers went to a clinic where it was being tested.
Regardless, the documentary brings to light a multitude of layers to what once seemed to be a cut-and-dry case that still fascinates America to this day.
