Since 1879 and into the following centuries, human minds will be influenced by backward angels -- the spirits of darkness -- who were forced out of the heavens and made their abode on earth following their defeat in a 40-year battle with the hosts of the Archangel Michael. We must learn to understand these things, not only to counter such influences within ourselves, but to understand the spiritual causes that lie behind major happenings on earth and in society. From this understanding, human development can proceed, leading to healthy social creation based on real insight.