Rumors about the Self-immolation: the Origins, Authenticity, Hold and Use (the End of XVII—XVIII Century)

The article deals with the peculiarities of the formation of rumors about the selfimmolation. As the article basis the numerous works left contemporaries of events aimed at struggle against rumors have served. The author finds that the diversity of the motis which drive the Old Believers to suicide, as well as the significant effect of rumors on the adoption of the fatal decisions.