While we may think that our history textbooks are only the truth, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes, characters or events are exaggerated, or even veer into complete fiction. One of the most popular instances of this is with legendary historical figures. From Robin Hood to King Arthur, these people may be unforgettable on paper, but did they really exist in time? Check out these six legendary historical figures who may have never existed below.
6. Homer
Starting our list of legendary historical figures is Homer. You may know the Greek poet best for his works, The Odyssey and The Iliad. While scholars have found references to Homer as far back as the 7th century BCE, little is known about him. Evidence of Homer existing is questionable at best, and many ancient texts are rooted in more myth than reality. Some scholars even argue that his famous epic poems are the result of oral tradition and were never written down at all.
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5. Sun Tzu
Fifth on our list of legendary historical figures is Sun Tzu, the author of the strategy guide The Art of War. Believed to be written in the fourth or fifth century, it has been used by numerous contemporary generals and CEOs. However, no one is sure is the Chinese mastermind existed, or if the novel was a compilation of Chinese wisdom gathered by many authors across time and then attributed to a single author.
4. John Henry
Next on our list of legendary historical figures is John Henry. He is most well-known from the John Henry ballads that appeared in the post-Civil War era when railroads were being constructed across America. Henry was said to be a former slave who challenged a steam drill to a race and won, only to die shortly after. His image inspired grit and determination in a country striving to be a titan of industry; however, while evidence supports that Henry was a real man, his feats were most likely fiction.
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3. Robin Hood
Rounding out the top three legendary historical figures is Robin Hood. Inspiring several films in the modern era, Robin Hood is also a popular folk hero in British history. Said to live in the Sherwood Forest during the reign of King Richard, Hood would steal from the rich and give to the poor. However, his image was likely fiction, brought to life in medieval ballads with scarcely any solid evidence found by historians. There are still some who believe his actions were based on a real person.
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2. Pythagoras
Second on the list of legendary historical figures is Pythagoras. The Greek philosopher, mathematician, and man behind the Pythagorean theorem may not be a man at all. Some scholars claim the name was used as a symbol or persona, since every historical account of Pythagoras comes from second- or third-hand sources. Others say his disciples are responsible for his discoveries and teachings, but we will never know for sure.
1. King Arthur
Last but not least on our legendary historical figures list is King Arthur. Steeped in legend alongside his Knights of the Round Table, Arthur led the Britons in battles against Saxon invaders in the 5th or 6th century. While we can confirm many of his legends, including magician Merlin and sword Excalibur, were invented by writers over the centuries, Arthur’s true existence is still up for debate. Some believe he was merely a hero of Celtic mythology, while others believe Arthur was based on a real ruler.
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