History is often shaped by our collective imagination, influenced by works of art and preconceived ideas.
Some myths from the past persist and are accepted as unquestionable truths. In this article, we uncover five of these historical myths common — the truth will surprise you.
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1. Dinosaurs were similar to today's reptiles
When we think of dinosaurs, it is common to imagine creatures resembling giant, green reptiles, as seen in popular films such as Jurassic Park.
(Image: Universal Studios/Reproduction)
However, recent research suggests that most of them had feathers and were more similar to colorful birds than reptiles.
Chinese dinosaur fossils prove this hypothesis, revealing a past that was more feathered for these creatures than scaly.
2. Pandora and the “Box”
The myth of Pandora often mentions a “box” that she opens, releasing all the evils in the world except hope.
However, historians argue that this interpretation is incorrect. The original Greek word, “pythos,” referred to a container, similar to a jar, rather than a box. Thus, Pandora would have received “Pandora's jar”, instead of “Pandora's box”.
3. Fights between gladiators lasted to the death
The idea that gladiators were forced to fight to the death is not accurate. Although many of them lost their lives in combat due to the violence of the battles, their owners had little interest in the deaths of these fighters.
(Image: Getty Images/Reproduction)
Training a gladiator was expensive and time-consuming, making his death a financial loss. A death of gladiators would also cause losses to fight organizers, who rented such warriors.
4. Gladiators were all muscular
Contrary to the popular image of competitors with perfectly sculpted muscles, they did not have the same advanced understanding of nutrition and training that modern athletes have today.
(Image: Wiki Commons/Reproduction)
The gladiators' diet was based on grains, such as barley, and they accumulated fat instead of defined muscles. This fat served as protection against blows to the abdomen and as a source of energy.
5. The Egyptian pyramids were always yellow
The famous pyramids Egyptian women didn't always have this color. When they were built, they were covered with polished white limestone stones, intensely reflecting sunlight.
Over the centuries, the coating disappeared, revealing the yellowish blocks we see today.
Myths, despite being widespread, do not completely reflect the reality of the past. Through scientific and historical research, our understanding continues to evolve, challenging traditional conceptions and revealing new perspectives on human history.