The Real Jaws: The Attacks that Inspired the Movies

Explores the 1916 New Jersey shark attacks, their impact on shark fear, and how media shaped harmful misconceptions.

In the Summer of 1916, a series of shark attacks along the New Jersey shore would send shockwaves across its otherwise peaceful beach towns. Spanning a terrifying two weeks, including the deaths of nearly five people, these attacks would officially cement an innate fear of sharks that humans have felt since the beginning of time.

Although initially kept under wraps by the touri...