History is filled with tales and facts, but some popular beliefs have been skewed. These misconceptions have been passed down through generations, often influencing how we view the past. Let’s look at some of the most common historical myths many still believe and get to the truth behind them. This gallery will allow you to learn more about the fascinating details often overlooked.
Napoleon Was Short
One of the most widespread myths is that Napoleon Bonaparte was exceptionally short. In reality, he was around 5’7″ (1.69m), which was above average for his time in France. The confusion stems from the difference between French and English measurements. Napoleon’s height in French measurements was recorded as 5’2″, but this was based on an old system.
Vikings Wore Horned Helmets
Contrary to the iconic images of Viking warriors with horned helmets, no historical evidence supports this. The misconception comes from 19th-century romanticized art. In reality, Vikings likely wore simple, functional leather or metal helmets without horns. The horned helmet design was purely a creation of imagination for theatrical productions.
The Earth Was Believed to Be Flat
It’s a common myth that people in the Middle Ages thought the Earth was flat. In truth, ancient Greeks, such as Pythagoras and Aristotle, had already proven that the Earth was spherical by the 5th century BCE. By Columbus’s time, the roundness of the Earth was widely accepted by educated people, though misconceptions lingered in popular culture.
The Great Wall of China Is Visible from Space
The idea that the Great Wall of China is visible from space is a popular myth. While it is long, it’s not wide enough to be seen by the naked eye from outer space. Astronauts have confirmed that spotting the wall without aid is nearly impossible due to its color blending with the natural terrain.
Cleopatra Was Egyptian
Although Cleopatra is one of the most famous figures in ancient Egyptian history, she was actually of Greek descent. Cleopatra belonged to the Ptolemaic dynasty, which ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s conquest. The family had Greek origins, and Cleopatra was the first to speak the Egyptian language, trying to connect with her people.
The Salem Witch Trials Burned Witches at the Stake
While the Salem Witch Trials are infamous, the execution method many imagine burning witches at the stake was never used in the trials. Instead, the accused witches were typically hanged, with one notable exception: Giles Corey, who was pressed to death with heavy stones. The misconception likely comes from depictions in movies and books.
Columbus Discovered America
Christopher Columbus is often credited with discovering America in 1492, but he was not the first to reach the continent. Indigenous peoples lived in the Americas for thousands of years before Columbus arrived. Norse explorer Leif Erikson reached North America around 1000 AD, centuries before Columbus’s journey.
Medieval People Believed Bathing Was Dangerous
Many people believe that medieval people avoided bathing for fear of disease. Public baths were standard in Europe during the Middle Ages, especially before the Black Death. People took regular baths, but by the 16th century, the negative association with cleanliness and disease grew, partly due to the rising concerns about spreading illness through communal spaces.
Romans Ate Only Exotic Foods
It’s often believed that Romans ate only extravagant foods like peacock and dormice, but their everyday diet was much more straightforward. Romans typically ate bread, vegetables, fruits, and occasionally meat. The extravagant dishes were reserved for the wealthy, while the average Roman enjoyed basic, affordable meals.
Sources
10 Unsolved Ancient Mysteries
Medieval misconceptions: 12 myths about life in the Middle Ages – busted
