6 Interesting Myths About American History That We Thought Were True

While school tries to teach us everything we need to know about history, sometimes there are a few things that are just wrong. For instance, there are several facts about American history that are actually myths. If you want to learn about these interesting misconceptions, then keep reading to learn these six myths about American history.

6. The Emancipation Proclamation Didn’t Free All Slaves

While the Emancipation Proclamation made a huge impact, it wasn’t a sudden change, unfortunately. Many believe that it instantly freed all enslaved people in America, but in reality, it only applied to states in rebellion, the Confederate states, not to border states or areas under Union control. It was a crucial step toward freedom, but it was only a step.

5. George Washington Had Wood Teeth

While Washington’s dental troubles were real, he never actually had wooden teeth like popularly believed. His false teeth were actually made of other materials, like ivory, gold, lead, and even human or animal teeth, but never wood. Many believe that the myth came from his teeth eventually becoming stained, which resulted in a wood-like appearance.

4. Betty Ross Sewed the First Flag

Betty Ross is often said to be the person behind the flag; however, that wasn’t true. There’s no historical documentation to prove that she created the first flag design. Historians agree that while Ross was a skilled upholster who made flags, there’s no concrete evidence that she was the reason behind the stars and stripes. It’s since gone down as just that, a legend.

3. Paul Revere Rode Alone

One of the many interesting myths about American history that we thought were true is that Paul Revere rode alone. The legendary midnight ride is often told as a solo mission to warn of British advances. However, Revere was just one member of a network of riders, with William Dawes and Samuel Prescott as other key players during this ride.

2. The Liberty Bell’s Crack

The Liberty Bell is a vital symbol in history, but it’s one of the many interesting myths about American history that we thought were true. Many believe the bell cracked as it rang for independence; however, no one really knows when the bell was cracked. The reality is that the bell has been wearing down for ages, so it could have happened at any time. However, modern researchers believe that the bell’s final, defining crack happened while it was being rung for George Washington’s birthday in the 1840s, not on Independence Day.

1. Salem Witch Trials Burned People

While the Salem Witch Trials were a horrible time in history, there’s a common misconception about that period. Contrary to popular belief, no one was burned at the stake during the trials of 1692. Most were hanged; there were some exceptions, like Giles Corey, who was pressed to death under heavy stones for refusing to enter a plea. Burning people at the stake was a European practice, but the history surrounding the witch trials is still tragic.