History’s Biggest Lies—The Myths We Still Believe Today

George Washington Had Wooden Teeth

The tale of George Washington’s wooden teeth is a persistent myth, but his dentures were never made from wood. Instead, they were constructed from a variety of materials including gold, ivory, and human teeth. Washington suffered from significant dental problems throughout his life, which necessitated the creation of several sets of dentures. The myth of wooden teeth probably originated from the appearance of his dentures, which may have resembled wood due to discoloration and texture. This longstanding misconception highlights how simple misunderstandings can evolve into widely accepted myths.

Napoleon Was Extremely Short

Napoleon Bonaparte is frequently depicted as being diminutively short, a notion largely propagated by British propaganda. In reality, Napoleon was about 5 feet 6 inches tall, a height that was average for a Frenchman of his era. The myth may have been accentuated by the presence of taller soldiers in his Imperial Guard, making him seem shorter by comparison. Miscommunication between French and British measurements further contributed to this misunderstanding. This example underscores how propaganda and rivalry can distort historical perceptions.

Walt Disney Drew Mickey Mouse

Walt Disney is often credited with the creation of Mickey Mouse, but the character was actually brought to life by animator Ub Iwerks. Iwerks played a crucial role in designing and animating the original Mickey Mouse cartoons. Although Disney was instrumental in marketing and popularizing Mickey Mouse, the creative genius behind the character was Iwerks. This myth serves as a reminder to acknowledge the contributions of all individuals involved in creating iconic cultural symbols.

The Great Wall of China is Visible from Space

A widely held belief is that the Great Wall of China can be seen from space with the naked eye. However, astronauts have confirmed that this is not the case; the wall blends with its surroundings and is hard to distinguish without magnification. This myth probably emerged from the wall’s impressive scale and the human desire to connect with monumental achievements. Despite its allure, this myth serves as a reminder of the limitations of human perception from such vast distances.

Vikings Had Horned Helmets

The image of Vikings wearing horned helmets is a fabrication that gained popularity in the 19th century. There is no historical evidence to support the existence of such helmets in Viking culture. Instead, Viking helmets were typically made of simple materials like iron or leather. The horned helmet myth was popularized by artistic and literary depictions, leading to a stereotype that persists today. This example illustrates how artistic license can lead to widespread historical inaccuracies.

Marie Antoinette Said “Let Them Eat Cake”

Marie Antoinette is infamously associated with the phrase “Let them eat cake,” a supposed response to the plight of the poor. However, there is no historical evidence that she ever uttered these words. The quote is believed to be a product of revolutionary propaganda designed to vilify her. This myth underscores the power of rhetoric and how it can be manipulated to influence public opinion and shape historical narratives.

Columbus Proved the Earth Was Round

Many people erroneously believe that Christopher Columbus’s voyages proved the Earth was round. In fact, educated Europeans of Columbus’s time already knew about the Earth’s spherical shape. Ancient Greeks had even calculated the Earth’s circumference centuries before Columbus set sail. The persistence of this myth highlights the seductive power of exploration stories, but it misrepresents the scientific understanding of the time and Columbus’s true motivations.

Einstein Failed Math

The notion that Albert Einstein failed math is a widespread misconception. In reality, Einstein excelled in mathematics and physics from a young age. He was renowned for his intellectual prowess and consistently performed well in these subjects. This myth may have arisen from misunderstandings about his educational history or challenges in other areas. It serves as a reminder of how easily misinformation can overshadow the accomplishments of extraordinary individuals.

Chameleons Change Color to Blend In

It’s a common belief that chameleons change color solely for camouflage. However, their color change is primarily a response to mood, temperature, and communication needs, rather than merely blending into their surroundings. This misconception simplifies the complex and fascinating biology of chameleons. Understanding the various factors that influence their color changes can deepen our appreciation for these remarkable creatures and the diversity of life.

The First Thanksgiving Was Peaceful

The traditional story of the First Thanksgiving is often portrayed as a peaceful gathering between Pilgrims and Native Americans. However, historical accounts suggest it was more of a tense diplomatic meeting, with subsequent conflicts arising in the following years. The myth of a harmonious Thanksgiving oversimplifies a complex history and overlooks the struggles and resilience of Indigenous peoples in the face of European colonization.

Salem Witches Were Burned at the Stake

The belief that the accused witches in Salem were burned at the stake is a common misconception. In fact, most of those accused were hanged, and some died in prison. The myth likely stems from the broader context of European witch hunts, where burning was more prevalent. This distortion of events highlights the importance of accurately representing historical occurrences to prevent the perpetuation of false narratives.

The Emancipation Proclamation Freed All Slaves

The Emancipation Proclamation is often thought to have freed all enslaved individuals in the United States. However, it only applied to those in Confederate states, leaving enslaved people in Union-controlled areas in bondage. This misconception can lead to misunderstandings about the complexities of emancipation and the ongoing struggle for civil rights. Recognizing the limitations of the proclamation is essential for understanding the broader context of American history.

The Trojan Horse Was Real

The tale of the Trojan Horse is a well-known story from Greek mythology, but there is no archaeological evidence to support its existence as a physical object. Scholars suggest it may have been a metaphor for a military tactic rather than a literal event. This myth demonstrates how myths and legends can shape our understanding of history, often blurring the lines between fact and fiction.

Romans Vomited During Feasts

The idea that Romans had a designated “vomitorium” for purging food during feasts is a misconception. In reality, a vomitorium was an architectural term for an exit in an amphitheater, allowing for efficient crowd movement. This myth reflects a misunderstanding of Roman culture and dining practices, emphasizing the importance of critically examining historical narratives to avoid perpetuating inaccuracies.

Thomas Edison Invented the Light Bulb

Thomas Edison is frequently credited with inventing the light bulb, but he did not create it from scratch. Instead, he improved upon existing designs and made significant advancements in electric lighting. Edison’s contributions were crucial, but attributing the invention solely to him overlooks the collaborative nature of technological innovation. This myth serves as a reminder of the collective efforts that drive progress and innovation.

The Middle Ages Were Dark and Backward

The characterization of the Middle Ages as a “dark” period is a misconception that overlooks the significant scientific advancements and cultural developments of the time. Contrary to the stereotype, the Middle Ages saw the rise of universities, architectural innovations, and the preservation of classical knowledge. This myth perpetuates a simplistic view of history and fails to recognize the complexities of societal progress during this era.

The Black Belt in Martial Arts Means Mastery

In martial arts, the black belt is often perceived as a symbol of mastery. However, it actually signifies a solid foundation in the art rather than ultimate expertise. The journey of a martial artist continues beyond the black belt, with further ranks and levels of proficiency. This misconception highlights the importance of understanding the nuances of skill development and the ongoing nature of learning in any discipline.

Medieval People Only Lived to 30

The belief that people in the Middle Ages had a life expectancy of only 30 years is misleading. While average life expectancy was lower due to high infant mortality rates, many adults lived well into their 60s and beyond. This myth oversimplifies the realities of medieval life and fails to account for variations in health and longevity across different regions and social classes. Understanding these nuances is essential for a more accurate portrayal of historical populations.