The Phantom Time Hypothesis is a historical conspiracy theory proposed by Heribert Illig in 1991, which suggests that the years 614 through 911 AD were completely fabricated by Holy Roman Emperor Otto III and Pope Sylvester II. According to the theory, we are currently living in the early 18th century because three centuries of history were invented to legitimize political claims. In meme culture, the hypothesis is frequently used to express shock at 'forgotten' time or to mock the absurdity of rewriting entire eras. It often pairs well with 'Conspiracy Keanu' or 'Always Has Been' formats, turning a fringe academic theory into a staple of internet skepticism and historical humor.