Sonia
The history of the United States is full of extraordinary events. Many different tales of the American Revolution and the Civil War enhance the richness of American history. Yet, many stories are unverifiable. Here are 15 common misconceptions about the history of the United States.
The Independence Day Of the U.S.
Every year, Americans celebrate Independence Day on July 4. On this day, Americans declared their freedom from Britain and formed their nation. However, in reality, the American colonies voted on July 2 to form a new nation. Moreover, the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness were asserted on that day.
The Story of George Washington and the Cherry Tree
When George Washington was elected as the inaugural president of the U.S., many stories about his good deeds revolved among Americans. The most popular one was about George cutting down a cherry tree in his childhood. He was praised for his honesty in admitting his fault.
Orson Welles’s War of the Worlds
On 30 October 1938, Orson Welles directed a radio show based on the novel The War of the Worlds, which was about an alien invasion. Orson added fake news headlines to make the alien invasion look real. It was reported that the whole nation went into chaos. However, in reality, no such incidents of chaos were reported.
Christopher Columbus Discovered America
Many still believe that Christopher Columbus discovered America in 1492. However, in reality, the human race had already established society in America before Columbus arrived. Moreover, the leader of Vikings in the 11th century, Leif Erikson, had already sailed to North America centuries before Columbus.
The Frozen Walt Disney is at Disneyland
After the death of Walt Disney, there was a rumor circulating that his body was frozen under Disneyland. However, the truth is that his body went through cremation, and his ashes are still lying at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.
The Civil War
The Americans witnessed the great Civil War during 1861–1865. The documentation claims that the war was between the pro-slavery Confederacy and the anti-slavery Union. Although the issues of slavery did exist; in reality, the war was about regional conflicts and different rights.
Betsy Ross and the U.S. Flag
William Canby, who was the grandson of Betsy Ross, published his paper, The History of the Flag of U.S. In the paper, he claimed that George Washington approached Betsy Ross to design the U.S. flag. However, historians never found any evidence for Canby’s claim about Betsy and the design of the U.S. flag.
The Defense of the Alamo
In 1836, 200 Texans holding a fort fought against a huge Mexican army. After 13 days of blood war, many Texans were killed. Later, a revenge battle took place where Texans fought against Mexicans and won. Americans believe this war was their historic win; however, at that time, Texas was not even a part of the U.S.
The Gettysburg Address
During the American Civil War, Abraham Lincoln addressed soldiers at Gettysburg. His 271-word speech lasted for a couple of minutes. However, Edward Everett, who was a statesman, gave a 2-hour speech on that same day about the Civil War. The importance of Everett’s speech needs due recognition.
The Big Crack in the Liberty Bell
In 1751, the iconic Liberty Bell was hung in the new State House in Philadelphia. With just the first test ring, the bell cracked. The rumor is that the excited Patriots tolling the bell too hard made it crack. However, in reality, the crack was due to another crack on the top of the bell.
Paul Revere and his War Cry
During the Revolutionary War, on the night of 18 April 1775, Paul Revere warned all the forces about the arrival of Britishers. His war cry is still highly acknowledged in the history of America. However, his fellow rider, Samuel Prescott, rode to Lexington to warn other Americans when Paul was arrested mid-way.
The Iraq War
After the incidents of 9/11, the U.S. invaded Iraq to kill Saddam Hussein. Politicians explain this invasion by claiming that terrorist activities were occurring in Iraq at that time. However, even after long investigations, there was no proper evidence, and the Iraq invasion was highly criticized by the Americans.
The First Thanksgiving
In 1621, Wampanoag Indians already living in America helped the struggling pilgrims with food and adaptation. Later, English settlers returned the gesture by welcoming the Wampanoag tribe to share food with them. This was a symbol of togetherness. However, in reality, the sole purpose of this arrangement was to form an alliance.
The United States is a Melting Pot
For centuries, many immigrant groups took shelter in America. The reputation arose of ours being a melting pot of people and cultures. However, one cannot remain blindsided by the fact that immigrants in America have faced a lot of bullying and exploitation.
The Unanimous Fight for Independence
Americans still believe that all Americans came together to fight for independence during the American Revolution. However, this is partially correct, as many American colonists remained loyal to the British. Therefore, the American Revolution is considered a conflict among the colonists.
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