Many beliefs Americans hold dearly turn out to be surprisingly untrue.
Americans take pride in their heritage, stories, and traditions, but some of the most cherished beliefs are rooted in myths rather than facts. From misinterpreted historical events to long-debunked scientific ideas, these inaccuracies have woven themselves into the cultural fabric.
Understanding and dispelling these myths isn’t just about being right—it’s a way to deepen our grasp of history and science while challenging assumptions that shape everyday life and discourse.
1. Christopher Columbus discovered America.
Contrary to the widely held belief, Christopher Columbus wasn’t the first to discover America, as reported by Lauren M. Johnson at CNN. Indigenous peoples had been living on the continent for tens of thousands of years before his arrival in 1492. Their rich cultures, advanced societies, and extensive trade networks are proof that the land was far from being “discovered.” Additionally, Norse explorer Leif Erikson reached North America nearly 500 years before Columbus, landing in what is now Newfoundland.
The Columbus myth became embedded in American culture through 19th-century efforts to celebrate exploration and national pride. While it may serve as a symbol of ambition and discovery, it overshadows the reality of Indigenous history and pre-Columbian exploration. Recognizing these truths allows for a more inclusive understanding of the continent’s rich and complex history.
2. The Declaration of Independence was signed on July 4, 1776.
July 4 is often celebrated as the day the Declaration of Independence was signed, but this is a misconception. The Continental Congress approved the final draft on July 4, 1776, but the document wasn’t signed by most delegates until August 2, as mentioned by researchers at The National Archives. Even John Hancock, whose signature became iconic, didn’t sign it on the Fourth. The approval and signing were separate events, each carrying its own significance.
This confusion stems from the emphasis placed on July 4 as the day America declared its independence. While it remains a symbolic date, understanding the timeline offers a deeper appreciation of the events that shaped the nation. It reminds us that independence was a process, not a single, dramatic moment.
3. Pilgrims and Native Americans celebrated the first Thanksgiving.
The traditional image of Pilgrims and Native Americans sharing a harmonious Thanksgiving feast in 1621 is a romanticized version of history, according to Sarah Pruitt at History. While there was a gathering between the two groups, it wasn’t called Thanksgiving, nor was it an annual tradition. The meal was likely a harvest celebration, and accounts suggest the relationship between Pilgrims and Native Americans was far more complicated, involving conflict and exploitation.
The modern Thanksgiving story emerged in the 19th century, largely promoted to foster unity during turbulent times. While the holiday remains a cherished American tradition, it’s important to acknowledge the historical realities behind the narrative and recognize the resilience of Native American communities.
4. George Washington had wooden teeth.
The idea that George Washington had wooden teeth is one of the most enduring myths about the first U.S. president. In reality, Washington’s dentures were made from a mix of materials, including ivory, gold, lead, and even human teeth. The myth likely arose because the ivory dentures became stained over time, giving them a wooden appearance.
Washington’s dental struggles highlight the harsh realities of 18th-century medicine. This myth has persisted partly because it humanizes Washington, making him seem relatable. However, the truth underscores the challenges of early dentistry and paints a more accurate picture of life during that era.
5. Benjamin Franklin discovered electricity with a kite.
The popular image of Benjamin Franklin flying a kite during a thunderstorm to discover electricity is an oversimplification. While Franklin did conduct experiments with kites and lightning, he didn’t “discover” electricity—electricity had been known and studied for decades before his time. What Franklin demonstrated was that lightning is a form of electrical energy, advancing the understanding of the natural world.
This myth persists because it captures Franklin’s ingenuity and adventurous spirit. It also simplifies complex scientific achievements into a single, memorable story. Understanding the full scope of Franklin’s work reveals the depth of his contributions to science and innovation.
6. Gum stays in your stomach for seven years.
Many Americans grew up hearing the cautionary tale that if you swallow gum, it will stay in your stomach for seven years. This claim is entirely false. Gum is largely made of synthetic substances that the stomach can’t digest, but that doesn’t mean it lingers in your system for years. Instead, the gum passes through the digestive tract relatively intact and exits the body like other non-digestible substances.
The myth likely originated as a way to discourage children from swallowing gum, as it’s not a habit anyone should encourage. While swallowing small amounts of gum is harmless, doing so frequently could cause digestive blockages in rare cases. By understanding how the body handles non-digestible items like gum, we can put to rest the unnecessary fear tied to this myth.
7. People only use 10% of their brains.
The belief that humans use only 10% of their brains is a myth that has persisted for decades, fueled by pop culture, movies, and motivational speakers. Neuroscientific research has consistently shown that nearly every part of the brain has a specific function, even during sleep or rest. While some areas may be more active at certain times, all parts of the brain are utilized to manage emotions, thoughts, memories, and bodily functions.
This misconception likely became popular because it implies untapped potential, inspiring the idea that we could unlock extraordinary abilities if we accessed the other 90%. While it’s an alluring notion, the truth is far more fascinating. Instead of seeking shortcuts to brainpower, focusing on learning, creativity, and self-care maximizes the brain’s real capabilities, which are already astounding.
8. Cracking knuckles causes arthritis.
The old warning that cracking your knuckles will lead to arthritis is a persistent myth, but it’s not backed by scientific evidence. Studies, including long-term research, have shown no direct link between habitual knuckle cracking and the development of arthritis. The popping sound comes from the release of gas bubbles in the joint fluid, which is harmless in most cases.
The origin of this myth may lie in an effort to discourage the habit, as it can be irritating to those nearby. While excessive knuckle cracking might occasionally result in reduced grip strength or joint discomfort, it’s not a serious health risk. Separating fact from fiction allows people to understand their bodies better and avoid unnecessary worries about harmless behaviors.
9. Lightning never strikes the same place twice.
The notion that lightning never strikes the same place twice is not only false but potentially dangerous. In reality, lightning is drawn to tall, conductive, or prominent objects, and these are often struck multiple times. For example, the Empire State Building in New York City is struck by lightning dozens of times every year, making it a vivid example of how this myth falls apart under scrutiny.
This misconception likely stems from efforts to comfort people during storms, suggesting that once lightning strikes, it’s safe to remain in the same place. However, understanding the behavior of lightning is essential for safety. Seeking shelter in a fully enclosed building or car and avoiding open fields or tall objects during a storm are far more effective strategies than relying on a comforting but inaccurate saying.
10. You lose most of your body heat through your head.
The belief that the majority of body heat escapes through the head has been widely accepted for decades, but it’s not accurate. Heat loss occurs through any part of the body that’s exposed, and the head is no exception. The amount of heat lost depends on the surface area, so while covering the head can help retain warmth, it’s not the sole factor in staying warm.
This myth likely originated from old military manuals or survival guides that exaggerated the role of head coverings. It may have been intended to encourage soldiers or adventurers to wear hats in cold weather. However, modern science shows that wearing adequate layers to cover all exposed areas is the best way to stay warm and prevent hypothermia, especially in extreme conditions.
11. Bats are blind.
The phrase “blind as a bat” is completely misleading, as bats are far from blind. In fact, most bats have excellent eyesight, particularly in low-light conditions. Additionally, bats rely on echolocation, a sophisticated biological sonar, to navigate their surroundings and locate prey, making them some of the most adept nighttime hunters in the animal kingdom.
This myth likely arose because bats’ use of echolocation is often misunderstood as a replacement for vision. However, these creatures’ abilities highlight the complexity of their adaptations, allowing them to thrive in diverse environments. Understanding the truth about bats not only dispels the myth but also fosters appreciation for their ecological importance, from pollinating plants to controlling insect populations.
12. Goldfish have a three-second memory.
The belief that goldfish have a memory span of only three seconds is entirely untrue. Studies have demonstrated that goldfish can remember information for weeks, or even months. They have been trained to navigate mazes, recognize patterns, and even associate feeding times with specific cues. Their memory and learning abilities make them far more intelligent than most people realize.
This myth likely originated from the perception that goldfish are simple creatures due to their small size and limited interactions. However, their capacity for memory and learning reflects their adaptability in the wild and in captivity. Dispelling this misconception helps us better understand these fascinating creatures and encourages more responsible care for them as pets.