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Top 10 Misunderstood Figures from History

Saint Patrick 

It is believed that this figure played a role in driving out all snakes from Ireland, but this claim is questionable as there were no snakes in Ireland during that time. The only confirmed historical fact about St. Patrick is that he was brought to Ireland as a slave in chains. After escaping and returning to Cumbria, he was ordained as a priest and later began his missionary work. St. Patrick converted thousands of people to Christianity and even converted the heirs to the throne of Ireland. However, the story of him banishing snakes is likely a metaphor for his efforts to convert the Druid cults in the region, and he did not bring Christianity to Ireland single-handedly.

Pontius Pilate 

During the period from 26 A.D. to 36 A.D., the prefect of Judea serves as a prime example of how good intentions can lead to disastrous outcomes. While many Christians who interpret the Bible literally and view it as a historical account often hold Pilate responsible for the crucifixion of Jesus, it is revealed that he actually made every effort to prevent it. Pilate, unconvinced of Jesus Christ's guilt in regards to crimes against Rome or his own people, permitted the public to decide between releasing Barabbas or Jesus as a convict. As we all know, the events that followed were tragic.

Ulysses S. Grant 

The political career of Ulysses S. Grant serves as a reminder that being a military genius does not automatically qualify one for the presidency. Despite the admiration he received from the American people during the Civil War, Grant's political career was marred by corruption and scandals, leaving a lasting stain on his historical legacy. Accusations of alcoholism and anti-Semitism have been made against him, but historians are now starting to uncover additional information in an effort to vindicate his name. Nonetheless, it seems that Grant did not actually have a significant association with alcohol.

 La Malinche 

La Malinche, the famous adviser to Cortez during his conquests of the Mayan and Aztec lands, is intriguing due to her unlikely background: she was the child of the ruler of the Mayan tribe. It is said that Cortez was so enamored with La Malinche that he granted her freedom and appointed her as his adviser and translator on his journey. However, historical opinions about her vary greatly. Some argue that Cortez's brutal campaign against the Aztec was influenced by her hatred towards their civilization, while others view her as a calming presence who may have tempered the conquistador's violent intentions.

King Canute 

Despite being an accomplished and wise ruler who controlled the northern kingdoms and large parts of Great Britain, Canute the Great is only remembered in history as the foolish king who tried to stop the tides. This misconception stems from a misinterpretation of an anecdote he shared. In reality, Canute meant to convey that no ruler, no matter how powerful, can control nature's elements, as God is the ultimate authority.

Saint Nicholas 

Santa Claus is a representation of the merging of Saint Nicholas, a missionary who resided in what is now Turkey, and the December gift-giving tradition specific to Christianity. The only connection between Santa Claus and this tradition is his charitable nature, as seen in the story of the dowry for the three daughters. Additionally, the Christmas tree has been borrowed from German customs.

Robin Hood 

The original purpose of Victorian propaganda was to support the Richards' claim to the throne over their notoriously evil brother, Prince John. However, this story eventually became a popular folk tale and later on, an overexploited Hollywood franchise. Historians seriously question the existence of Robin Hood and his tendency to rob corrupt noblemen. One possible explanation for his name is that it was derived from the phrase "robbing hood," which referred to a band of thieves.

Oliver Cromwell

Although the Lord Protector of England is often remembered as a champion of democracy for his choice to dissolve a corrupt parliament, it seems that he was merely a power-hungry tyrant. Additionally, the Irish view him as a ruthless butcher due to the atrocities he committed during his military campaigns.

 Vlad  Dracula 

Similar to Robin Hood, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that Vlad the Impaler was a vampire lord. However, this did not prevent Hollywood from adapting Bram Stoker's fictional novel into successful films. While Vlad's brutal methods of dealing with enemies, such as impalement, were indeed cruel, they were common practices during his time. It is believed that his membership in the Dragon Knights order is what led to him being associated with the name Dracula.

Richard the Lion Heart 

Despite being portrayed as a great hero of Christianity, Richard the Lion Heart did not live up to the morals and values he supposedly defended. He seized the throne from his father by force, had a massive ego, initiated one of the first holocausts in history, was captured and had his country pay a ransom through increased taxes and looting. The only act of true kindness from this supposed holy figure was on his deathbed, when he pardoned the archer who had wounded him. However, the archer was promptly executed by flogging after Richard passed away, showing that his intentions were not entirely noble.