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Today in History: California authorities find 13-year-old isolated feral child

11/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On November 4, 1970, California authorities discovered Genie, a 13-year-old feral child who had endured severe abuse and isolation. Confined by her father since infancy, she lacked language and social skills. Her case highlighted the effects of extreme neglect and became significant in the fields of linguistics and child psychology.

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Story summary

On November 4, 1970, California authorities discovered Genie, a 13-year-old feral child who had endured severe abuse and isolation. Confined by her father since infancy, she lacked language and social skills. Her case highlighted the effects of extreme neglect and became significant in the fields of linguistics and child psychology.