Discover 55 historical events that NEVER happened 4q2m2h

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Did you know that Brazil wasn't actually discovered by Pedro Álvares Cabral? Understand this and other episodes that we learn and believe wrong our whole lives
Table of Contents 94e1i
  1. Pedro Álvares Cabral and the discovery of Brazil
  2. Did the vampire Dracula exist?
  3. Emperor Nero and the fire of Rome
  4. Flat Earth vs Round Earth
  5. Was Walt Disney Frozen?
  6. Man is a featherless biped
  7. Shirt collars: a marketing strategy
  8. King Solomon's Judgment
  9. Albert Einstein and low grades in mathematics
  10. “Even you, Brutus?”
  11. Benjamin Franklin's kite
  12. Loyalty portrayed in the framework of Brazilian Independence
  13. The legend of the Gordian Knot
  14. The paradoxes of Zeno of Eleia
  15. Christopher Columbus' ships
  16. The death of Catherine the Great
  17. The salting of Carthage
  18. Deaths from the 1929 Crisis
  19. “Let them eat brioches”
  20. Martin Luther's 95 Theses
  21. Lady Godiva's ride
  22. “Eureka!”
  23. Archimedes' Death Ray
  24. George Washington and the Silver Coin
  25. William Tell and the apple
  26. Cass Elliot and the death caused by the sandwich
  27. Benjamin Franklin and the decision of the official animal of the USA
  28. Oscar Wilde's last words
  29. Betsy Ross and the US flag
  30. The Salem witch trials
  31. War of the Worlds: radio panic
  32. Newton's laws
  33. Battle of Thermopylae and the 300 Spartans
  34. The History of the Chastity Belt
  35. The City of Atlantis
  36. Dr. Seuss' famous quote
  37. Representation of the colors of the Brazilian flag
  38. The legend of the Bermuda Triangle
  39. Billy Goat's Curse on the Chicago Cubs
  40. Cleopatra's Pearl Cocktail
  41. President Taft trapped in a bathtub
  42. The origin of French fries
  43. g the Magna Carta
  44. Santos Dumont: father of aviation
  45. President Lincoln and the phrase about the Civil War
  46. JFK declares himself a jelly donut
  47. George Washington and the cherry tree
  48. Jimmy Stewart's candidacy
  49. Julius Caesar and cesarean section
  50. Alice Cooper rumors
  51. The cow that caused the Great Chicago Fire
  52. The Burning of the Bras
  53. Princess Isabel: a hero in the abolition of slavery
  54. The War of the Runaway Dog
  55. Was Hugo Boss the designer of Nazi uniforms?

Have you ever found yourself wondering what would have happened if certain facts that we learned and knew had taken different paths? But what if we told you that there are a series of historical events that never happened, but that permeate our culture and we believe it to this day, either because it was taught to us at school or because we heard it through popular word of mouth? 2v564r

We have put together a list of different curiosities from around the world and even from our country. From ancient legends to modern theories, you will be quite surprised when you finish reading. Check it out below!

Pedro Álvares Cabral and the discovery of Brazil 3c3j3f

Pedro Álvares Cabral and the discovery of Brazil (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

Through research, it was seen that our land had already been explored a few times before Pedro Alvares Cabral show up to take everything in fact. At the beginning of the 16th century, Portugal was immersed in the spice trade from the East, so Brazil did not attract much interest in substantial investments. However, he was still visited on expeditions, such as that of Duarte Pacheco Pereira in 1498, in order to rescue spices and precious metals. Some time later, the exploration of the famous brazilwood emerged as a viable opportunity for the exploration of the newly discovered territory, as it was a raw material that did not require as many resources. That's where Cabral finally enters the scene.

In short, Brazil was not simply discovered by him, but rather gradually explored and colonized through several trips and interactions over time. It is worth mentioning that, therefore, what we also believed to be an episode that occurred by force of fate, through winds that surprisingly took the caravel off course, is another untrue.

Did the vampire Dracula exist? 65e50

Did the vampire Dracula exist? (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

Dracula, the famous vampire in literature, is also a myth. However, despite not existing in real life, it was inspired by a historical figure: Vlad III, known as Vlad the Impaler, born in Transylvania. He was a prince of Wallachia (which is now part of Romania) in the 15th century, notorious for his cruelty, for using impalement as a method of execution and even drinking the blood of corpses — according to legends from the region. The name so well known in literature was also, most likely, created from reality. Vlad earned the nickname Dracul for his entry into the Order of the Dragon, a military fraternity.

That's what the writer Bram Stoker used Vlad as inspiration to create the character of Count Dracula in his novel published in 1897. Although the vampire is nothing more than a fictional creation, he carries the influence of a real and fearsome historical figure.

Emperor Nero and the fire of Rome 2s6y2p

Emperor Nero and the fire of Rome (Image: White Images)

The fire of Rome in AD 64 is one of the most infamous events in ancient history, often associated with the Emperor Nero. Tradition says that he caused the fire and played the lyre, a musical instrument, while the city burned in flames. However, this version of events is widely contested by several historians. This serious accusation could have been propagated by political enemies at the time.

While it was once believed that the emperor simply didn't care what happened to the city, some new studies suggest that Nero was actually not in Rome when the fire started and that he returned quickly to help with relief efforts. Furthermore, there is no evidence that he actually played the lyre during the tragedy.

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Flat Earth x Round Earth (Image: Medium)

This is an issue that is still discussed today, but the idea that the Earth would be flat is one of the biggest misconceptions in history. The ancient Greeks were some of the first to provide evidence that the Earth was spherical: Pythagoras already speculated and Aristotle provided observational arguments such as the curved shape of the Earth's shadow on the Moon during a lunar eclipse and the change in constellations visible when traveling south.

However, the idea of ​​a flat Earth persisted in a number of contexts, especially in medieval Europe, where the scientific knowledge of the Greeks was largely lost or misinterpreted. This misconception ended up being overcome with the rediscovery and dissemination of classical texts during the Rebirthing, as well as with maritime explorations that demonstrated the curvature of the Earth. That's where it comes in Christopher Columbus, since it is believed that he was the first to prove this entire theory. However, his arguments were based more on geography and not the shape of the planet. It was the circumnavigation trip of Fernão de Magalhães, in the 16th century, which provided indisputable practical proof that we live in a round space.

Was Walt Disney Frozen? 115r1j

Was Walt Disney Frozen? (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

For many years, the cryogenesis of the creator of Mickey Mouse was debated. The truth is Walt Disney died in 1966 due to complications from lung cancer, and after his death he was cremated.

The persistence of this myth was due to his family's behavior at the time, as they began to suspect from the moment Disney's cancer was announced. But the urban legend, in fact, arose when his heirs requested that, instead of sending flowers or wreaths to the cemetery, people donate to the cemetery. California Institute of the Arts. This fueled conspiracy theories, suggesting that the money was being diverted to finance Walt Disney's cryonics, a technique that had just emerged at the time and was expensive. However, there is no evidence or documentation to prove this.

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“Man is a biped without feathers” (Image: Inadequate Reason)

The history of this phrase is related to a philosophical dispute between philosophers Plato e Diogenes. According to the narrative, the first would have defined man as “a biped without feathers” in his work The banquet. So, in response to this definition, Diogenes would have entered Plato's academy carrying a plucked rooster and exclaimed: “Here is Plato's man!” With this action, Diógenes sought to ridicule his colleague's definition, suggesting that the simple physical description of a human being as a featherless biped was insufficient to capture the complexity and essence of the human being.

Although this event has gone down in history in some way, there is no document that proves that this actually occurred in the past. Perhaps this is a tale that came about just to demonstrate how entertaining Diogenes was, as some historical s describe him as such.

Shirt collars: a marketing strategy 2t4b5u

Shirt collars: a marketing strategy (Image: Reproduction/Internet/Montage)

In the 1820th and XNUMXth centuries, those who wore collars were held in high esteem. The bigger and taller he was, the richer and more important the man was in society. However, these accessories tended to get quite dirty and this bothered many wives as they always had to wash not just the collar, but the shirt that accompanied it. Then, one day, a woman decided to cut off this specific part of the garment to save time. This would be the story that gave rise to the removable collars that appeared in the industry in the mid-XNUMXs.

But, it seems, this situation never happened in the past and only served as a marketing strategy for women to convince their husbands to buy the product.

King Solomon's Judgment 3x3l2x

The judgment of King Solomon (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

The story of the trial of King Solomon It is known and even ired, but its historical veracity is somewhat uncertain. The appears in the Bible, but while many consider the story an example of the wisdom and justice attributed to Solomon, there is no concrete historical or archaeological evidence that proves the event actually happened.

The narrative describes a case in which two women claim to be the mother of the same child. Both live in the same house and recently gave birth, but one of the babies dies and each claims that the one that survived is hers. Solomon, to resolve the dispute, proposes cutting the child in half, giving half to each woman. One of them accepts the decision, but the other gives up, wanting the baby to be spared. The king then reveals his wisdom by declaring that the woman who showed comion is the true mother, as he would rather lose his son than see him die. The fact is that it is a story intended as a moral teaching rather than as a historical record.

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Albert Einstein and low grades in mathematics (Image: Getty Images)

The story that Albert Einstein Had bad grades in math is a myth. In fact, Einstein always excelled in subject matter as well as science during his school years. He began to show remarkable aptitude at a young age, solving complex problems long before his peers. What happens is that this legend may have arisen from a misunderstanding about the note system used in Switzerland, where the scientist studied. When he attended school, grades were reversed compared to systems used in other countries, where a grade of “1” was the best and “6” was the worst.

Furthermore, he also faced difficulties in 's rigid educational system and did not adapt well to traditional teaching, which may have contributed to the perpetuation of the entire story. However, school records and teacher reports confirm that Einstein was always an exceptional student in mathematics.

“Even you, Brutus?” 593j5q

“Even you, Brutus?” (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

This is a story that seems more like a Mandela effect. “Et tu, Brute?” is a Latin phrase meaning “Until you, Brutus?” in Portuguese. She is best known for her association with the play Julius CaesarWritten by William Shakespeare. The phrase is uttered by the character himself at the moment of his death, when he recognizes that even his adopted son Brutus is among the conspirators who stabbed him. But there are also those who say that the phrase, in reality, was “Kài sù, tèknon?”, something like “See you, son?”.

However, although the famous phrase was not recorded in contemporary historical s of the event, Shakespeare popularized it in his play, where it symbolizes the betrayal of a close friend. This phrase ended up becoming a symbol widely used in contexts and situations of betrayal and deception over the centuries, being recognized worldwide and cited in popular culture.

Benjamin Franklin's kite 2i2w3g

Benjamin Franklin's kite (Image: Getty Images)

In 1752, Benjamin Franklin he allegedly tied a metal key to a string on a kite and released it during a storm. He expected the lightning to carry electricity from the cloud to the switch, ing through the line and shocking his hand, thus showing that electrical storms were caused by electricity. However, Franklin was not trying to attract lightning, but rather to demonstrate that lightning was a form of electricity. Although the experiment was dangerous, the scientist managed to prove his theory, and his discovery contributed greatly to the development of human understanding of electricity and even the invention of the lightning rod.

Some exact details of the experiment may have been romanticized over time, but the essence of what happened and its historical importance remains.

Loyalty portrayed in the framework of Brazilian Independence 401f47

Loyalty portrayed in the painting of Brazilian Independence (Image: G1)

What few know is that the classic picture of Pedro Américo It does not seek to be an accurate representation of the historical moment of the proclamation of Brazil's independence, but rather a romantic and propagandistic idealization of the episode. The artist was not interested in reconstructing the scene in a true way, but rather in highlighting the importance of the gesture of D. Pedro I for the creation of Brazil as a nation.

It depicts the emperor in a heroic stance, drawing his sword in a dramatic gesture, surrounded by a grand and epic atmosphere. It is an approach that reinforces the imperial government's intention to exalt the monarchy and promote a sense of national pride among the population. However, the Ipiranga stream was not in the location shown in the painting, the painted costumes also do not match reality and D. Pedro was riding a donkey, wearing simple clothes, as were his cavalry.

The legend of the Gordian Knot 1k503q

The legend of the Gordian Knot (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

According to legend, the King Gordias of Phrygia tied a cart to a post on the city's acropolis, and the resulting knot was extremely tangled and seemingly impossible to undo. An ancient prophecy stated that whoever could untie it would become the ruler of Asia. When Alexander, the Great confronted the knot, he was unsuccessful, but instead solved the riddle in a different way: he cut it with his sword, stating that, according to the prophecy, “he who would untie the Gordian Knot would untie it.”

We are talking about a story that has become a symbol of quick and decisive problem solving, regardless of the methods used. It is also often interpreted as a metaphor for the idea that complexity can be overcome with direct and determined actions, and has also become a popular expression over time. But this is also a tale that is not true due to a lack of evidence.

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The paradoxes of Zeno of Eleia (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

Zeno of Eleia was an ancient Greek philosopher known for his paradoxes, which challenged concepts such as movement and infinity. One of his most famous is the Achilles paradox and the tortoise, which argues that if Achilles gave a tortoise an advantage in a race, he would never catch up. This occurs because, every time Achilles reaches the place where the tortoise was, the tortoise will have already advanced a little, and so on, resulting in an infinite series of distances to be covered. Therefore, even though each segment is smaller and smaller, the infinite number of them prevents Achilles from reaching the tortoise. Therefore, according to Zeno, movement would be an illusion.

What was said and had repercussions in history is that Diogenes, despite being known for his life and behavior, he also had a reputation for refuting theories over time. With this, it was said that Zeno's paradox was criticized by the philosopher, who categorically stated that it was false and impossible. But the truth is that this story never happened, after all, Zeno of Eleia was only 11 years old when Diogenes died.

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Christopher Columbus' ships (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

What is known is that upon discovering America, the ships of Christopher Columbus became famous by their names. In fact, several history books call them Girls, Surface contracting (caravels) and Santa Maria. However, the first two names never existed.

Normally, sailors used to give nicknames to vessels and that is why Ninã and Pinta became famous at some point. Basically a “cordless phone” that resulted in what we always thought was real. But, later, it was discovered that the first caravel had the original name of Casa Particular in Santa Clara. The original name of Pinta remains unknown.

The death of Catherine the Great 3o3q10

The death of Catherine the Great (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

Catherine the Great was one of Russia's most prominent leaders and ruled the country for more than three decades, during which she implemented significant reforms and expanded Russian territories. However, her death in 1796 became the subject of many theories and rumors over the years. One of the best known is the claim that she died while having sex with a horse. Nowadays, what is believed is that this is a story considered a myth or slander, having been disseminated by political detractors to discredit her reputation and legacy.

Despite this and other sensational claims, most historians agree that Catherine died of natural causes, due to a stroke, and not due to such grotesque circumstances.

The salting of Carthage 5g1k5b

The salting of Carthage (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

This is a story that is not very well known, but it is surprising. She states that after the destruction of Carthage by the Romans during the Third Punic War, the Roman general Scipio Emilianus He ordered the city to be completely razed and its lands to be sown with salt, making them sterile and unsuitable for agriculture. However, the veracity is questionable. Many historians argue that the salting of Carthage's lands may have been an exaggeration or a figurative interpretation of ancient texts.

The truth is that historical sources on the war are limited and biased, written mainly by Roman authors, who could have distorted events to glorify Rome and demonize its enemies. Furthermore, salting land as a means of total destruction of a city was an uncommon practice in ancient times.

Deaths from the 1929 Crisis 5z6l6c

Deaths from the 1929 Crisis (Image: Shutterstock)

Much is said about the crisis that struck the United States in 1929, mainly because it went down in history not only because of its context, but because of the suicides of people who found themselves desperate at the time. The most unexpected are facts about individuals, the majority of whom are stock market shareholders, throwing themselves from sky-high buildings. But this is a rather exaggerated idea.

Although the great depression, as this episode was later called, caused widespread economic suffering and an increase in death rates, there is no solid evidence that there was a significant increase in tragic suicides at this level during this specific period. The crisis had a devastating impact, this is undeniable, however it is also common that historical events like this can often be romanticized or exaggerated over time.

“Let them eat brioches” 4m714d

“Let them eat brioches” (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

“Let them eat cake”, however, more commonly known as “let them eat brioches”, is a phrase attributed to Marie Antoinette, queen consort of during the late 18th century. However, there is not much evidence that she actually said this. Out of curiosity, these were words associated with the insensitivity and disdain of the nobility towards the poverty and hunger of the French people before the French Revolution.

The story goes that, when informed that the people had no bread to eat due to scarcity, Marie Antoinette suggested that they eat brioches, a type of bread enriched with butter and eggs, considered a luxury at the time (the phrase became altered or interpreted in different ways, and many also mention cake as food). However, this is another case that appears to have come from anti-monarchical propaganda disseminated during the period to tarnish the image of the royal family, given the division between the elite and the lower classes.

Martin Luther's 95 Theses 1cn1m

The 95 Theses of Martin Luther (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

Although this is an image that has been widely propagated over time, there are historical debates about whether Martin Luther, one of the central figures of Protestant Reformation, actually physically preached the 95 Theses at the door of the Church of Wittenberg Castle, in . For those who don't know, they were documents that criticized the practice of selling indulgences by the Catholic Church and argued that salvation came through faith in God, and not through financial acts or works. However, there is no documentary evidence that Luther physically nailed these papers.

The first known report comes from Philip Melanchthon, a colleague and follower of Luther, but he only mentioned it for the first time years after Luther's death, and Melanchthon was not in Wittenberg at the time the theses were supposedly preached. The fact is that the practice of posting theses or announcements on the doors of churches and other public buildings was common at the time, in order to announce academic debates. Therefore, even if Luther did this, the act itself would not have been extraordinary, but its symbolic importance subsequently grew.

Lady Godiva's ride 2i5x60

Lady Godiva's tour (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

The legend of lady godiva It's another fictional story set in medieval times. It tells of an 11th-century Anglo-Saxon noblewoman who supposedly rode naked through the streets of Coventry, England, covered only by her long hair. This would have been an act carried out in protest against the high taxes that her husband, the Count of Mercia, imposed on his subjects. According to rumors, Lady Godiva had asked him to reduce them, and he finally said he would do so if she rode naked through the city market.

However, although the story is well known and has been romantically represented in art and literature, its veracity must also be questioned. Many historians believe that it is a myth, with no solid basis in historical records.

“Eureka!” 6m3v3k

“Eureka!” (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

The expression “Eureka!” is popularly associated with Archimedes and used to this day, but its context is doubtful. According to legend, the King Hiero II asked the mathematician to check the purity of a new gold crown without destroying it, suspecting it had been adulterated with silver. While bathing, Archimedes noticed that the water level rose when he entered the bathtub and realized that he could use the displacement of the liquid to measure the volume of the crown and determine its density and composition. Thus, excited about his discovery, he would have run naked through the streets of Syracuse, shouting “Eureka!”, which in Greek means “I found it!”.

It would be quite a funny tale if it had actually happened, but it only spread through the of the Roman architect Vitruvius, who lived two centuries after Archimedes. Historians believe that the dramatization of the expression may have been a later embellishment.

Archimedes' Death Ray 541m1e

Archimedes' Death Ray (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

Archimedes becomes the victim of yet another fascinating legend here. The story alleges that the famous Greek mathematician and inventor used mirrors to create a concentrated beam of sunlight capable of setting Roman ships on fire during the siege of Syracuse. According to legend, Archimedes used large concave mirrors to concentrate the sun's rays at a specific point on enemy ships, causing fires and destroying the vessels.

However, the veracity of this story is widely questioned by historians and scientists. There is no report that actually confirms the existence or use of such a device by the scientist. The first known mention of this story appears centuries after his death, in texts by authors such as Lucian of Samosata and, later, in works by Byzantine historians. Furthermore, several modern attempts to recreate the “death ray” have had mixed results. In experiments by scientists and engineers, including a famous test by Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 2005, results varied, and the device's practical effectiveness was questioned.

George Washington and the Silver Coin 5l2b24

George Washington and the silver coin (Image: Reproduction/Internet/Montage)

The history of the silver coin George Washington is basically a legend that illustrates the physical strength of the first US president when he was younger. According to the story, he had received a new silver coin from his father and, curious, decided to test his skill by throwing it across the Potomac River (or, in some versions, the Delaware River), which was approximately a mile long. He would have been successful. But it turns out that this is a story that served most to highlight Washington's virtues, and has never been proven.

It was popularized by Mason Locke Weems, his biographer — known for transmitting moral lessons to his readers —, who included these types of reports in his biography written shortly after the president's death. Furthermore, your stepson George Washington Parke Custis was the one who reported the truth behind the whole situation, stating that the coin, in reality, was a small stone, and the river, which would be close to the house where the president lived, was not so large.

William Tell and the apple 2r2w6i

Guilherme Tell and the apple (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

The story is a Swiss legend that has been told over the centuries and is basically a fable. According to it, at the beginning of the 14th century, the Austrian governor, Albrecht Gessler, placed a hat on a pole in the town square of Altdorf and ordered all citizens to salute the accessory as a sign of respect for Austrian authority. William Tell, a skilled Swiss archer, defying this order, refused to carry out the decree. As punishment, Gessler ordered Tell to show his prowess by hitting an apple placed on his own son's head. So, in an act of courage, he accepted the challenge and managed to save the boy's life.

This tale is often used to illustrate themes of courage, resistance to oppression, and justice. Although its historical veracity is contested, it remains popular as a moral lesson and a reminder for various situations in life.

Cass Elliot and the death caused by the sandwich 5d5a8

Cass Elliot and the death caused by the sandwich (Image: Getty Images)

Cass Elliot was a member of the musical group The Mamas & the Papas, and his death is an urban myth that has gained circulation over the years. According to the story, the singer had died choking on a ham sandwich while staying in London.

However, there is no reliable evidence to this information. The official cause was identified as heart failure, due to a combination of obesity and heart disease in 1974. Furthermore, there are no medical reports or autopsies that confirm that her death was even minimally involved with a sandwich. What is believed is that this rumor began to have repercussions, most likely due to the challenges the artist was going through in relation to weight stigmatization.

Benjamin Franklin and the decision of the official animal of the USA 3d62k

Benjamin Franklin and the decision of the official animal of the USA (Image: Reproduction/Internet/Montage)

According to the story, during the american revolution, Benjamin Franklin would have suggested that the turkey be chosen as the national symbol of the United States. This would have been a situation that began with a letter he wrote to his daughter, Sarah BacheIn 1784.

In the document, Franklin reportedly made remarks about the eagle and the turkey as candidates for the national symbol, suggesting that the latter was a “more respectable bird” and “a truly original and American bird.” However, there is no evidence that he actually formally proposed the animal as a national symbol in any official context. The choice of the eagle was officially adopted in 1782 by the Continental Congress, on the Great Seal of the United States, with the justification that it symbolized majesty, strength and longevity, characteristics that the leaders of the time associated with the new nation in formation.

Oscar Wilde's last words 6ym38

Oscar Wilde's last words (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

The last words of the classic writer Oscar Wilde They are a source of controversy and mystery, surrounded by different s and interpretations over time. One of the most popular versions is that he said: “This wallpaper and I are in a duel to the death. Either he dies or I die.” This phrase suggests that Wilde was commenting on his situation on his deathbed, in a hotel room, where the wallpaper was unpleasant to him. However, the authenticity of these words cannot be confirmed, as there are no records documenting them.

Other sources suggest he said something different, such as “I am dying like a gentleman,” or “I am dying beyond my means.” True or not, this is yet another fact that exemplifies the irreverent spirit of the author who even knew how to transform death into an opportunity for an insightful comment.

Betsy Ross and the US flag 69625k

Betsy Ross and the US flag (Image: Bloomberg)

Betsy Ross is a historical figure in the United States and has been associated with the creation of the first American flag, with its thirteen stripes representing the original thirteen colonies that separated from Great Britain during the american revolution. The story goes that in 1776, a commission led by George Washington visited the talented seamstress in Philadelphia, and commissioned the task of making the flag. According to legend, Betsy suggested the idea of ​​including five-pointed stars instead of the original proposed six-pointed stars, and sewed the first pattern of the banner.

However, the veracity of this story was and still is debated, as there is no concrete evidence that confirms the direct involvement of women in the creation of the flag. The first references to her participation appeared decades after the events allegedly occurred.

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The Salem witch trials (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

The Salem witch trials were a historic event that took place in 1692 in the city of Salem, Massachusetts, during which dozens of people were accused of witchcraft and several were sentenced to death. The event exposed social and political divisions within the small community, including family rivalries and power struggles. However, an important feature of this episode is that, contrary to what is often portrayed in popular culture, there was no burning at the stake of the accused. Instead, the condemned people were hanged.

This could be another one of the facts on the list caused by Mandela effect, since it is known that the period of Witch hunt in the Middle Ages it was filled with punishments that involved fire. It was precisely because of this that they came to believe that the famous trial would also have had women burned, but no.

War of the Worlds: radio panic m9c

War of the Worlds: radio panic (Image: Disclosure)

Have you ever imagined being caught off guard when you hear the announcement of a war? This is what happened with the famous radio broadcast of The War of the Worlds in 1938. It turns out that the conflict was not real and was an adaptation of the novel by HG Wells. The production was made in a news format, with bulletins interrupting the musical programming to report an alien invasion in New Jersey. Many listeners tuned in during the broadcast and, without realizing it was a piece of fiction, panicked, fleeing their homes and calling emergency services.

However, the most curious thing is that the whole situation occurred at a time when Europe was on the verge of Second World War and radios were being a real-time source of news. This helped to increase the fuss and controversy even more.

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Newton's Laws (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

The story of the apple that fell on Isaac Newton being at the foot of a tree supposedly inspired him to formulate his theory of universal gravitation is a very popular narrative, but it is not true. At least, not completely.

Newton's studies have always been widely accepted, however, the accidental fall of the fruit on his head was not the reason the scientist discovered and developed his laws. A biography of him, written by one of his friends, reports that the apple story is true to a certain extent. Newton himself said that he was under a tree and saw the fruit fall, but it only inspired his ideas when he reflected on the fact that apples always fall straight to the ground, instead of at some angle, for example.

Battle of Thermopylae and the 300 Spartans bu5f

Battle of Thermopylae and the 300 Spartans (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

A Battle of Thermopylae, which occurred in 480 BC, is one of the most famous events in ancient military history, mainly because it was portrayed in the film 300 (2006). During the Second Greco-Persian War, a Greek coalition led by Sparta faced the vast Persian army led by the King Xerxes I, in the narrow age of Thermopylae, in central Greece.

The best-known legend of this battle is the heroic resistance of the 300 Spartans, led by King Leonidas I, who chose to stay behind to delay the Persian advance while the remainder of the Greek forces withdrew. But although the Spartans' bravery and sacrifice have been extolled throughout the centuries, it is important to note that the episode involved much more than just this small contingent. The idea of ​​only 300 Spartans at Thermopylae was described by Herodotus and gained prominence for its drama and symbolism of bravery against adversity.

The History of the Chastity Belt t5m3w

The history of the Chastity Belt (Image: Fatos Desconhecidos)

The history of Chastity Belt is often associated with the Middle Ages, fueling the belief that women were forced to wear these metal devices to restrict their sexuality. However, this narrative is entirely a myth. Although some references to similar accessories can be found in historical documents, there is no proof of their widespread use. Many historians even argue that the idea of ​​the belt was more likely a later invention, perpetuated by legends about the oppression of women at the time.

The City of Atlantis hf3v

The City of Atlantis (Image: Shutterstock)

A City of Atlantis is still a legend that continues to intrigue people throughout the centuries, and it all started through a story from Plato. According to the philosopher, it was an advanced and prosperous civilization, known for its technology, culture and wealth. Atlantis was ruled by a wise and powerful elite, but it eventually became corrupt and arrogant. Then, as a result of her sins, she would have been destroyed in a single catastrophic day and night, submerging into the depths of the Atlantic Ocean.

Although many consider the story to be a literary creation of Plato, some researchers and explorers still continue to search for evidence that might suggest a historical basis for the narrative. Theories and speculations about its location have emerged in various parts of the world, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean and even on the American continent. However, to date, no archaeological evidence has been found to confirm the existence of the city as described by the philosopher.

Dr. Seuss' famous quote 1335v

Dr. Seuss's famous phrase (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

Dr. Seuss is known worldwide for his works, mainly The Cat in the Hat. However, few know that he also invented the word “nerd”, made propaganda films during the Second World War and was also responsible for several quotes and rhymes. One of her most popular is: “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind.”

Despite it being beautiful advice and worth reflecting on, this is a phrase that never left the writer's mouth. Some references to these words date back to the mid-1940s, and even appeared in a London engineering magazine, although they did not correspond to anyone in specific. It is not known why it was related to Dr. Seuss.

Representation of the colors of the Brazilian flag 3t6613

Representation of the colors of the Brazilian flag (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

The Brazilian flag also presents a story that few people actually know. In the context of the transition from Monarchy to Republic in Brazil, there was an effort on the part of defenders of the new regime to detach national symbols from the monarchical past and build a different republican identity. Therefore, the creation of another story about the colors of the flag served as an attempt to erase the connection with its origins.

It is known that yellow represents the country's gold; green symbolizes the forests; and blue would be related to the seas. However, the real meaning is quite different: green refers to Bragança House, dynasty of D. Pedro I. Yellow refers to the Habsburg House, dynasty of D. Pedro's first wife, Leopoldina. The blue, in theory, would not have any relevant meaning, but it was the background of the stars that continued to represent each province, as it is today.

The legend of the Bermuda Triangle 3z3022

The legend of the Bermuda Triangle (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

Who has never heard of Bermuda Triangle? It is an area of ​​the Atlantic Ocean that extends between the islands of Bermuda, Puerto Rico and Fort Lauderdale, in Florida. The region became famous for a series of mysterious disappearances of ships and aircraft throughout the 20th century. These events, along with reports of strange phenomena such as comes pointing toward magnetic north and communication failures, have fueled a number of theories and legends.

Among the most popular are natural phenomena, as well as more exotic explanations, such as alien activity or dimensional portals. However, most disappearances can be explained by extreme weather conditions, human error and mechanical failures. The region is subject to frequent tropical storms, which can be intense and sudden.

Billy Goat's Curse on the Chicago Cubs 4fb32

Billy Goat's curse on the Chicago Cubs (Image: USA Today)

A Curse of Billy Goat It's just a superstition associated with the baseball team Chicago Cubs, which began in mid-1945. During the World Series (annual Major League championship series in the United States and Canada) that year, a local tavern owner, William “Billy Goat” Sianis, tried to take his goat to the stadium Wrigley field to watch the series game against Detroit Tigers. However, stadium officials did not allow the goat entry, claiming it smelled bad. Angered, the man allegedly placed a curse on the team, declaring that they would never win a World Series again.

Since then, the Cubs have gone through a long series of defeats and failures, fueling the belief in the goat's curse. For decades, the team's fans believed this, particularly when Sianis himself tried to lift a curse in 1969, only to see the Cubs suffer another collapse. However, in 2016, the curse seemed to be broken and the team won the World Series, ending a 108-year wait for the title.

Cleopatra's Pearl Cocktail 13y54

Cleopatra's pearl cocktail (Image: Disclosure)

The history of Cleopatra's Pearl Cocktail It is a legend that says that the queen made a deal with Marco Antonio, with whom he had a political and romantic involvement, to bet that he could spend 10 million sestertius (ancient Roman currency) in a single meal. Therefore, during the banquet, Cleopatra would have dissolved her earring with one of her pearls, valued at the same fortune, in a glass of vinegar. The jewel was quickly corroded by the substance and became an exotic drink.

This story has been romanticized over the centuries, however, its veracity is questioned, since its official source is only the philosopher Pliny the Elder. No evidence can actually prove that this, in fact, happened. Many believe that it is just one of the many tales involving wealth and the famous queen of Egypt, considering that, according to rumors, she liked to show off.

President Taft trapped in a bathtub 2f12r

President Taft trapped in a bathtub (Image: Getty Images)

The urban legend of President Taft trapped in a bathtub is a popular story that has circulated for decades but lacks evidence to back it up. According to her, William Howard Taft, the 27th president of the United States, was so burly that he was trapped in a bathtub at the White House and needed the help of six people to free him.

However, the truth is that there are no reliable historical records that confirm this story. Although Taft was known for his physical robustness and considerable weight, this is a situation that may have been exaggerated or even invented over time, possibly as a way to caricature or ridicule him for his physical appearance. One of the s of the event reportedly came from the White House's longtime butler, Irwin Hoover, who simply mentioned that Taft occasionally stayed in the bathtub for a long time and needed “help” to get out.

The origin of French fries 6i2sg

The origin of French fries (Image: Informe Brasil)

Few know, but the origin of French fries dates back to the 17th century and is attributed to Belgium, where it is said that local inhabitants fried potato slices as a substitute for fish during periods when rivers were frozen and fishing was not possible. However, there is controversy about this story, as there are reports that fried food was already consumed in before this period.

One theory suggests that French fries were introduced to Europe by Jewish immigrants, who brought with them the habit of preparing “French fries”, thin slices of potatoes fried in oil. This practice would have become popular in and then, later, in Belgium. Currently, due to its name, this is a food that continues to be associated with the French nation, however, it is correct that its history dates back to a combination of cultural and gastronomic influences from across Europe.

g the Magna Carta 4u495h

g of Magna Carta (Image: Heritage Images)

A Magna Carta was a document that limited the power of the King John and established fundamental rights that marked the beginning of constitutional government in 1215 in England. However, there is a myth behind this situation that has gone down in history.

The king was facing a serious crisis of legitimacy and revolt from the English barons due to his authoritarian government. Unhappy with abuses, they took London, forcing João to negotiate and sign the Magna Carta, but the reason he gave in is something that generated and still generates some buzz about. One of the ideas is that the king signed the document naively or without understanding the context due to his militarily fragile position and the pressure exerted by the barons. But the truth is that he understood the context and implications of the document well, so much so that he quickly sought to nullify the agreement. However, this pretension led to a new conflict that only ended with his death.

Santos Dumont: father of aviation 1y2v1v

Santos Dumont: father of aviation (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

The dispute over who invented the first airplane is still discussed today, mainly by Brazilians and Americans. It involves Santos Dumont and the Wright brothers, and the Brazilian has become quite recognized in Europe, especially for Aeroclub of , for making the first public flight in 1906 with his 14-bis. His model plane was able to take off, fly in a controlled manner and land without the need for external launch mechanisms.

On the other hand, the Wright Brothers of the United States are generally credited with the invention for having performed the first controlled and sustained flight of a powered aircraft with the Wright Flyer in 1903. Although his flights were not publicized at the time, the documentation and records presented later convinced many historians and institutions, including the Aeroclube de . Therefore, it is unlikely that there will be an agreement on the true father of aviation, however, it is undeniable that evidence such as records that Santos Dumont was unable to deliver must be considered.

President Lincoln and the phrase about the Civil War 5h2k1y

President Lincoln and the phrase about the Civil War (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

A American Civil War Could it have happened because of a romance? That's what some still believe. Published in 1852, the book by H, The Hut of Father Tomas, exposed the cruelties of slavery and stimulated the abolitionist movement, would have influenced the political atmosphere that led to the war.

According to legend, when the writer was introduced to President Lincoln at a meeting during the Civil War, he supposedly said: “So this is the little lady who wrote the book that started this great war.” This is a statement that marked American folklore, but it is another story for which no solid evidence has been obtained. The meeting between the two would have taken place in 1862, but reports about the phrase only came to light years later.

JFK declares himself a jelly donut m6c6e

JFK declares himself a jelly donut (Image: Getty Images/Reproduction)

Once, the president John F. Kennedy declared himself a jelly donut. At least, that is what many understood from his famous speech in West Berlin in 1963. In fact, Kennedy said: “Ich bin ein Berliner”, an expression that means “I am a Berliner” in German. However, a misinterpretation led some people to believe he was saying it was a specific type of donut called a “Berliner,” which is not true. What he said was grammatically correct, even having been written by the translator, a native speaker.

What happens is that, although the sweet is called with the same word, it is not a term used in the area surrounding Berlin, which prefers the word Pfannkucken. Furthermore, the misconception may have originated from a 1983 spy novel that talked about cartoonists having a day of partying after the president's speech. Everything was nothing more than fake news, but still, this was the news that persisted.

George Washington and the cherry tree 1s5730

George Washington and the cherry tree (Image: Getty Images/Reproduction/Montage)

George Washington He has been involved in several stories, but one of his classics is the story of the cherry tree, which highlights the honesty and integrity of the first president of the United States. According to legend, when he was a child, his father found his favorite cherry tree cut down on their property and asked his children who had committed the act. Washington, despite fearing the consequences, itted to cutting down the tree with an axe, saying: “I was the one who cut down the cherry tree. I can't lie.” The man's anger soon turned to pride at the boy's honesty.

Although this is a story told and valued as an example of moral virtue, there is no evidence to prove the episode. This is yet another myth that surrounds the president's biography, as well as that of the silver coin.

Jimmy Stewart's candidacy q2k2e

Jimmy Stewart's candidacy (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

The history of the candidacy of Jimmy Stewart is an example of an urban myth that has circulated for decades. In reality, Ronald Reagan was the one who was in that position, however, first and foremost, he was known for being an actor. When Jack warner, one of the founders of Warner Bros., and his boss at the time, found out about his candidacy for Governor of California, he stated: “No, Jimmy Stewart for governor. Ronald Reagan for [the governor’s] best friend.” Stewart was also an actor and a co-worker of Reagan.

At the time, the statement was published in Time Magazine, but it was unclear whether Warner actually said this. Despite all the buzz, what is believed is that this may have just been his joke.

Julius Caesar and cesarean section 3v6l6h

Julius Caesar and cesarean section (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

It is common for cesarean births to be made with Julius Caesar, even more so due to the historical figure’s surname. However, the relationship is a myth that persists in popular culture. According to legend, Julius Caesar was the first baby to be born by cesarean section, which at the time was a dangerous operation performed only when the mother was dead or dying during childbirth.

However, in reality, the name “cesarean section” most likely originates from the Latin word cut down, which means “to cut”, in reference to the surgical procedure of opening the abdomen to remove the baby. Although the Romans performed some early forms of cesarean section to try to save children when mothers died during childbirth, there are no specific records confirming that Julius Caesar was born this way.

Alice Cooper rumors 4g2665

The rumors of Alice Cooper (Image: Disclosure/Reproduction/Montage)

The story involving Alice Cooper and cats is an example of how rumors can spread and affect a public figure's reputation. What was known is that one day, at the beginning of the artist's show, he went on stage carrying a backpack with some kittens and said something like: “I refuse to play until these cats are dead”. Soon after, he would have thrown them towards the public so that his fans would obey.

In fact, there is no reliable evidence that the artist made such a statement or request during one of his shows. The rumor appears to have been created and spread by people who did not appreciate his music or his eccentric persona, thus seeking to tarnish his image. The controversy was so great that even parents of some Cooper fans, who were extremely horrified by the situation, became worried and saw the artist as a totally inappropriate figure.

The cow that caused the Great Chicago Fire 4b1lz

The cow that caused the Great Chicago Fire (Image: Adventures in History)

Much has been said about the story that a cow that caused the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, however, this is another popular myth that continues to persist in American culture. According to legend, the fire started when a lady's cow named Catherine O'Leary he allegedly kicked a kerosene lamp into his house, setting the barn on fire and starting the flames that spread throughout the city.

However, these were just rumors. The official report on the origins of the fire never mentioned the animal and its kerosene lamp. The true cause of the Great Chicago Fire remains unknown, although it has been widely attributed to a combination of dry weather conditions, strong winds and the rapid spread of fire in wooden buildings in the city.

The Burning of the Bras a3j4r

Burning the Bras (Image: Disclosure)

The story of the bra burning is a symbolic event associated with the feminist movement in the United States. But although the term “bra burning” is often used to describe an act of radical protest against female oppression, the actual event was less dramatic than popular imagination suggests.

In 1968, during a demonstration organized by New York Radical Women in front of the competition Miss america, some women threw bras, shoes and other items considered symbols of female oppression into a trash can. Despite exaggerated and sensationalist reports in the media at the time, there were no fires or burnt bras during the protest. However, the term “bra burning” ended up being used to describe the growing female resistance and the gender equality movement that was gaining momentum at the time. The image of the burning was more symbolic than literal.

Princess Isabel: a hero in the abolition of slavery 13q70

Princess Isabel: a heroine in the abolition of slavery (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

It is known that Princesa isabel, daughter of D. Pedro II, was known for having signed the Golden Law in 1888, which officially abolished slavery in Brazil. Her g was an important milestone in the country's history and she is often portrayed as a hero and defender of human rights. But is it really?

The question of the motivation behind g the document is debated by historians. Some argue that Princess Isabel was a committed abolitionist and that she was genuinely committed to ending slavery in Brazil. On the other hand, there are those who suggest that everything was more a result of political and economic pressures. The end of slavery was already an international trend, and maintaining this system was becoming increasingly unsustainable for the country. Furthermore, there was pressure from the agrarian elite and international interests to end slavery.

The War of the Runaway Dog q125

The War of the Fugitive Dog (Image: Reproduction/Internet)

A War of the Runaway Dog is an urban legend that has been circulating on the internet for years. According to the story, it was triggered when an American soldier accidentally left the door of a bunker open during the raid. Vietnam War, allowing a stray dog ​​to enter and provoke an enemy attack by barking and alerting the presence of troops.

However, that's just what they say. There have never been official records of a war sparked by a dog during this war, and the story appears to be based more on folklore and speculation than actual events. It is even possible that the story was inspired by real s of pets that accompanied soldiers during armed conflicts.

Was Hugo Boss the designer of Nazi uniforms? 3q5d21

Was Hugo Boss the designer of Nazi uniforms? (Image: Reproduction/AFP/Montage)

This is not such an unknown story, but there are nuances in this . Although it is true that the company Hugo Boss supplied uniforms to the Nazi regime during the Second World War, the narrative that the fashion designer was the main designer of their uniforms is inaccurate. The company mainly produced uniforms for SS (protection squadron) and other Nazi paramilitary organizations, but there is no evidence that he designed the costumes specifically for the Nazi regime.

After the war, the company faced criticism over this connection, and it sparked controversy over its history for decades. Not long ago, the brand acknowledged its past and issued statements apologizing for its use of forced labor and its collaboration with the regime during the war.

So, what curiosity surprised you the most? Tell us in the comments!

See also:

Discover the best films that recreated historical events

No fake news? Google fact checking is available worldwide

Sources: Youtube, G1, Examination

Text proofread by: Pedro Bomfim

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