Bedlam: History's First Insane Asylum 🏥

00:00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:03:10 Origins in the Middle Ages (1247–1500)
00:09:30 Tudor and Stuart Bedlam (16th–17th Centuries)
00:20:14 Bedlam in the 18th Century
00:32:39 Reform and Reorganization
00:46:33 20th Century to Today
00:55:59 Conclusion and Thoughts

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Uncover the turbulent history of Bethlem Royal Hospital—infamously known as “Bedlam”—the world’s first institution dedicated to treating mental illness. This video traces its origins in 13th‑century London, revealing how shifting medical theories, religious attitudes, and social pressures shaped early psychiatric care. Explore the hospital’s notorious reputation for overcrowding, public “madhouse” tours, and controversial treatments, while meeting the reformers who fought to replace cruelty with compassion and science.

By examining archival records, patient stories, and recent scholarship, we reveal how Bethlem evolved from a medieval priory into a modern psychiatric institution, laying the groundwork for mental‑health practices worldwide. Whether you’re researching the roots of psychology, London’s hidden history, or the broader struggle for humane treatment, this deep dive into Bethlem Royal Hospital offers essential insight into the challenges and breakthroughs that continue to influence mental‑health care today.

Information sourced from Wiki, Gutenburg, JSTOR, primary and secondary sources. All information is congruent with archaeological and history evidence at the time of recording.