The word 'cult' conjures a wide variety of images in the mind, from sinister hooded figures lurking in the shadows to strange symbols and ancient scriptures warning of Armageddon. But not all cults are like this. In fact most are outwardly friendly and welcoming, their members normal, well-meaning people in search of answers. However, their search for the truth can often lead people to being manipulated by leaders with darker intentions. In History of Cults you will meet the maddest, baddest and most outlandish 'messiahs' and dive into how they created the movements they controlled, including the Manson Family, Scientology and NXIVM.