12 Stories From History People Keep Getting Wrong
In the vast realm of history, where countless stories of human achievement and failure unfold, it’s unsurprising to stumble upon a few misconceptions or misinterpretations. Over time, these narratives deeply embedded in our collective memory have parted ways with the truth, often due to an amalgamation of oversimplifications, misinformation, or plain old-fashioned legend-building.
This piece aims to shed light on a dozen such commonly misinterpreted historical stories, delving into the authentic accounts with empathy and creative exploration, hoping to bridge the gap between what we think we know and what truly transpired. Here are 12 Stories from history people keep getting wrong
Christopher Columbus Discovered America
Often taught in schools, this story discounts the fact that indigenous people already inhabited America long before Columbus’s arrival. Furthermore, Leif Erikson reached North America nearly 500 years before Columbus.
Slaves built the Pyramids
Despite popular belief, recent evidence suggests that paid laborers built the Pyramids. Archaeological findings indicate workers’ living quarters and evidence of a well-fed workforce.
Marie Antoinette Said, “Let Them Eat Cake.”
This quote is frequently attributed to Marie Antoinette in response to hearing about starving peasants. However, historians widely agree that there is no record of her saying this.
Witches Were Burned At The Stake During The Salem Witch Trials
In truth, of the 19 found guilty, 18 were hanged, and one was pressed to death under heavy stones. None were burned at the stake.
Albert Einstein Failed the Math
A myth that often circulates to encourage students struggling with math. In reality, Einstein excelled in math from a young age.
Napoleon Bonaparte Was Extremely Short
Despite popular belief, Napoleon was of average height for his time. The confusion lies in the difference between English and French measurements.
Paul Revere’s Midnight Ride
Contrary to the popular narrative, Revere wasn’t the only rider that night – he was one of many. He never completed his ride; British troops captured him.
The Signing of The Declaration of Independence
Most people believe it was signed on July 4, 1776. However, most delegates signed it on August 2, 1776.
The Viking Helmets
Contrary to popular depictions, there’s no historical evidence that Viking helmets were adorned with horns.
The First Thanksgiving
It’s often pictured as a peaceful feast between Pilgrims and Native Americans. But current scholarship suggests a much more complicated story.
Pocahontas and John Smith
The popular narrative romanticizes a relationship between these two. However, historical evidence suggests that Pocahontas was likely a child when they met and had no romantic relationship.
The Emancipation Proclamation Ended Slavery
While it declared freedom for slaves within the Confederate states, it did not end slavery entirely in the United States. That came later with the 13th Amendment.
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