The person who invented hell was probably just really mad at the person who invented heaven

This is true in religious dogma, Satan himself was a fallen Angel

Some people are motivated best with a carrot, but others require the stick. Cult leaders who know how to use both will maximize their control.

Nah, hell is pretty great for controlling masses if you manage to make them believe.

Basically "you're all going to hell, but if you follow my lead, I have this one neat trick that all devils hate".

At some point some kids learned they could get food and shelter by peddling the dumb shit their dad made up when they were kids.

"Daddy, where is uncle Larry after he touched little Susie?"

He's burning in hell sweetie.

"... Are we having bacon tonight daddy?"

No sweetie. That's uncle Larry in hell.

Dante Alighieri?