What Your History Books Didn’t Tell You About These 16 Historical ‘Facts’

Your history book might have taught you a lot, but did you ever wonder if everything you read was completely true? We are about to uncover real stories from the past that can make you start questioning what you’ve always believed about history. This journey shows you parts of the past that you never knew, challenging your previous knowledge.

1. Old Metal Type Book: Jikji

The book ‘Old Metal Type Book: Jikji’ written back in 1377, is actually older than Gutenberg’s Bible by a surprising 78 years. It has the unique distinction of using movable metal-type technology before anyone else. 

This unsettles the common belief that Johannes Gutenberg was the first to use this type of printing technology. UNESCO realized its importance in 2001, recognizing the book’s innovative role in accelerating printing technology.

2. Truth about Napoleon’s Height

Many people have a wrong impression about the height of Napoleon Bonaparte. He was not short, as popularly believed, but had an average height for his era. 

The confusion arose due to the differences in measurement systems between France and England. This misconception about his height took root and continued despite historians’ efforts to correct it.

3. Medieval Torture Myths Debunked

There are a lot of misconceptions about famous torture devices thought to be used in Medieval times, like the Iron Maiden and Pearl of Anguish. These scaremongering devices didn’t actually exist back then. 

Many of these so-called artifacts were either counterfeits or replicas made for exhibitions in dubious museums. The lack of evidence in medieval documents bolsters the claim of their non-existence.

4. Columbus’ Funding Predicament

The misconception that people did not want to give Columbus funding because they thought the world was flat is tackled. However, most people at that time were aware of the round earth and even had a good estimate of its size. Columbus’ mistake of underestimating the Earth’s size made potential sponsors question his ability to accomplish his expeditions successfully.

5. Misunderstood Lemmings

The popular but mistaken belief that lemmings, a small species of rats, indulge in group suicides by jumping off cliffs is debunked. A documentary film director manipulated this fallacy by manually throwing these creatures off a cliff for dramatic effect. This deceptive portrayal has misled viewers for several years.

6. Holocaust Casualties Revisited

It’s well known that six million Jews were killed by the Nazis. However, the actual death toll overshoots to about eleven million when it includes other ethnic minorities who were targeted. The tragedy was undeniably more widespread than it’s usually acknowledged.

7. Pilgrims’ Voyage Purpose

When the Pilgrims left England, they sought to escape religious tyranny and establish their unique religious society. This objective was viewed as radical at the time. England was quite progressive, and Europeans often held the Puritans in extreme perspectives.

8. Ancient Global Trade Networks

Archaeological discoveries that showed a global trade network challenged the prevailing belief in a secluded ancient world. Metals from Afghanistan have been found in Britain, dating even before the Bronze Age began. It’s evident that civilizations were involved in extensive trade and communication much sooner than previously thought.

9. Medieval Life Reassessed

Most people visualize Medieval life as dirty and tough times. However, historical records indicate that people from that time were hygiene-conscious and had excellent sewing skills. Their lifespan was similar to ours now, except when interrupted by outbreaks of diseases or warfare.

10. Giza Pyramid Builders’ Reality

The age-old belief that Jewish slaves built the awe-inspiring Giza pyramids is scrutinized here. However, most experts in Egyptian history disapprove of this blanket statement and believe it lacks historical evidence. 

11. Edison & Light Bulb

While Thomas Edison’s considerable role in enhancing and successfully promoting the light bulb is undeniable, he was not its original inventor. However, there are reports that cast a shadow on his character, implying questionable ethics, thereby offering an alternate viewpoint on his legacy.

12. Queen Victoria’s Support During the Irish Famine

Queen Victoria’s commendable actions during the devastating Irish Potato Famine of 1845 often go unnoticed. Contrary to widespread misconceptions, she donated a large sum of money and encouraged others to contribute as well. Her humanitarian efforts were more significant than they are generally perceived.

13. What Did Carver Really Do With Peanuts?

George Washington Carver’s remarkable work with peanuts led to the development of more than 300 applications, yet he did not invent peanut butter. Instead, credit for peanut butter can be traced back to Indigenous American cultures that existed long before European arrival.

14. The Actual Story of the Blood Countess

The gruesome legend of Elizabeth Bathory, infamous for her heinous crimes, has been widely accepted for years. However, recent examinations suggest that the story of her slaughtering 600 young girls to bathe in their blood was likely political propaganda aimed at tarnishing her reputation and diminishing her power.

15. Spanish Flu’s Real Roots

New evidence uncovers the true beginnings of the 1918 Spanish Flu. Despite its misleading name, the disease did not originate in Spain. The term “Spanish Flu” is a misnomer that inaccurately represents the actual source of the flu outbreak.

16. Broken Promises with Native American Tribes

The overlooked history of broken treaties between the United States and Native American tribes is another discussion point. Surprisingly, it’s unknown to many throughout US history.

The truth is every agreement made with the Native American tribes has been violated. This refusal to acknowledge the violation of these treaties in history books conceals a vital fragment of the nation’s history.

14 South American Cities So Safe, You Could Leave Your Doors Unlocked

Which South American cities could a tourist visit without anxiety? Safety is usually the number one concern among travelers. Here is a run-down of the safest cities in South America.

• 14 South American Cities So Safe, You Could Leave Your Doors Unlocked

Experience Southeast Asia like Never Before: 14 Unforgettable Things to Do and Places to Stay

Southeast Asia is a treasure trove of unique experiences and breathtaking destinations. This region has some of the world’s most incredible sights and sounds, from vibrant cities to remote villages.

If you’re looking for an adventure that will take you off the beaten path or simply want to relax in a one-of-a-kind accommodation, then you’re in luck. 

• Experience Southeast Asia like Never Before: 14 Unforgettable Things to Do and Places to Stay