There could also be stories about cursed objects in the Appalachian horror true story genre. For example, an old heirloom that brings misfortune to whoever possesses it. Families might experience a series of bad luck, from health problems to financial disasters, all seemingly linked to this object that has some dark history attached to it.
One of the terrifying events could be encounters with strange creatures. In Appalachian horror true stories, there are often tales of shadowy figures in the woods. Some people claim to have seen something like a large, hairy beast that moves silently. It gives off an aura of danger and the unknown, which is truly frightening.
One of the true stories could be inspired by real - life haunted houses. For example, some old mansions with a dark history might have been the basis. Another could be related to cults. There have been real cults in American history that might have influenced the show's storylines.
Another aspect could be related to cults. There have been real - life cults with disturbing practices. American Horror Story may use the idea of a cult's brainwashing techniques, their strange rituals, and the way they control their members. This is often seen in some seasons where a group is led by a charismatic but deranged leader who forces the members to do things against their will, much like in some real - life cult situations.
One terrifying experience could be the overcrowding in asylum centers. People are crammed into small spaces with limited resources. There's not enough food, clean water, or proper medical care. For example, in some refugee camps that serve as temporary asylums, families have to sleep on the cold, hard ground, and diseases spread quickly due to the lack of hygiene. Another aspect could be the threat of deportation while seeking asylum. Some people flee their countries in fear of their lives, but the asylum process is so complex and strict that they constantly live in fear of being sent back to the very place where their lives are in danger.
Well, there are stories about cults in American Horror Story that might be based on real - life cult happenings. The way cult leaders manipulate and control their followers, leading to all kinds of atrocities. Also, the true stories of witches and witch hunts could be part of it. The fear and superstition surrounding witches in history, and how innocent people were wrongly accused and persecuted, which are all elements that might be inspired by real events.
The randomness. Just like in the real events it was based on, the victims had no idea why they were targeted. It could happen to anyone, anywhere.
Perhaps the true - story - based event of being trapped in a dark, abandoned building is really scary in 'Fears to Fathom'. The character is disoriented, with only a faint flashlight. There are strange noises all around, and the fear of the unknown is overwhelming. Every step might lead to a new and more terrifying discovery.
One of the terrifying events is the presence of the various ghosts. For example, the Countess who is a vampire and has committed numerous murders. She lures people into the hotel and then feeds on them. There are also the ghosts of those who have died tragic deaths in the hotel, like the people who were killed by the serial killers that once roamed the halls. The hotel also has a very eerie and haunted atmosphere that adds to the overall sense of terror.
I heard there were strange noises coming from the old abandoned wing at night. People said it sounded like someone was dragging heavy chains. It gave everyone the creeps.
The unexplained phenomena made it terrifying. Things like doors opening and closing by themselves and strange noises in the middle of the night are really scary.
One of the scariest is 'Jeff the Killer'. The idea of a deranged, pale-faced killer with a permanent smile carved into his face is truly horrifying. He's often depicted stalking his victims in the dead of night.