Johannes Stöffler's 1524 Flood Prediction

In 1499, German mathematician and astrologer Johannes Stöffler predicted that a universal flood would engulf the world on 20 February 1524. A nobleman, Count von Iggleheim, took the prophecy seriously and had a three-story ark built on the banks of the Rhine in Germany, drawing massive crowds on the appointed day. When only a light rain began to fall, the onlookers panicked and tried to storm the ark and nearby boats, triggering a stampede in which hundreds were trampled to death. The flood prediction itself never came true, and the year 1524 later became known for drought, while von Iggleheim was reportedly dragged from his ark and stoned by the frightened mob.

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