History
Rulers, scientists, reformers — the real people behind the legends.
Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam's independence on September 2, 1945, quoting the US Declaration of Independence. This move drew parallels between American and Vietnamese struggles for independence. The declaration marked the beginning of a new era for Vietnam
Fidel Castro survived an estimated 600 assassination attempts throughout his life. The attempts began in 1958 and continued until his death in 2016. Castro's ability to evade these attempts is a testament to his cunning and resilience.
Emiliano Zapata was a Mexican revolutionary leader who freed thousands of peasants from oppressive landlords. His movement began in 1910 and lasted until his assassination in 1919. Zapata's legacy continues to inspire social justice movements today
Pancho Villa led a raid on Columbus, New Mexico, killing 17 Americans. The invasion was sparked by Francisco I. Madero's assassination in 1913. This event is a little-known fact in American history.
José Martí was a Cuban poet and politician who died in battle against Spanish forces. He was a key figure in the Cuban War of Independence, fighting for Cuba's freedom from Spain. Martí's legacy is marked by his bravery and poetic works.
Toussaint Louverture led the Haitian Revolution and outsmarted top military minds. He was captured by Napoleon's generals and imprisoned. Louverture died in a French prison on April 7, 1803.
Yaa Asantewaa led a war against the British in 1900 due to their disrespect and aggression. The queen mother of the Ejisu kingdom in Ghana fought for her people's rights and dignity. Her bravery inspired a nation and changed the course of history
Queen Nzinga used her brother's corpse to negotiate with the Portuguese in 1624. This bold move was part of her campaign to protect her kingdom from colonial forces. Her bravery and cunning would become legendary in African history
Shaka Zulu revolutionized warfare in Africa. He was a powerful king of the Zulu Kingdom. His life was cut short by his half-brothers.
Sundiata Keita led the Mali Empire to victory against the Sosso Empire in 1235. Despite being unable to walk as a child, Keita's determination and willpower drove his success. His achievements have been recorded by historian Djibril Tamsir Niane in his book about Keita's life.
Mansa Musa's visit to Egypt in 1324 had a profound impact on the economy. He gave away so much gold that it crashed Egypt's economy. Historian Ibn Khaldun recorded the event in his book.
Attila the Hun died on his wedding night due to a nosebleed. He had just married Ildico, a Germanic princess. The sudden death occurred in his bedchamber in modern-day Hungary.
Constantine converted to Christianity after seeing a cross in the sky before a battle. This vision occurred on the eve of his battle against Maxentius near the Milvian Bridge in Rome. Constantine's conversion had a significant impact on the Roman Empire's religious landscape.
Caligula appointed his horse to the Roman Senate. This act was one of many that led to his assassination. Caligula's reign ended in bloodshed on January 24, 41 AD.
A fire broke out in Rome in 64 AD. Emperor Nero was not in Rome when the fire started. The fiddle did not exist at that time.
Ned Kelly was executed by hanging on November 11, 1880. He was captured by police in Glenrowan, Victoria, on June 28, 1880. Kelly's legacy as a folk hero has endured despite his tumultuous past
Sitting Bull led his warriors to victory against the US 7th Cavalry Regiment. The battle marked a significant turning point in the Great Sioux War of 1876. Sitting Bull later joined the circus, a surprising turn of events for the legendary chief.
Joan of Arc was burned at the stake by the English on May 30, 1431. The trial was overseen by Pierre Cauchon, who sought to prove her guilt. She was later made a saint 500 years later
Saladin led Muslim forces to victory over Crusaders at the Battle of Hattin. He then captured Jerusalem, cementing his reputation as a skilled leader. Saladin's victories marked a turning point in the history of the Crusades.
Mother Teresa's homes for the dying in India had no painkillers, causing unnecessary suffering. The lack of pain relief is a disturbing fact given the homes' purpose. This revelation raises questions about the quality of care provided by Mother Teresa's organization.
The FBI monitored Martin Luther King Jr.'s activities for years. Director J. Edgar Hoover led the surveillance efforts. The FBI's actions may have contributed to King's assassination.
Malcolm X was assassinated by Nation of Islam members. The FBI had prior knowledge but took no action. His death was a result of betrayal and neglect.
Che Guevara was a revolutionary leader executed in 1967. His life was documented by historian Jon Lee Anderson. Guevara became a cultural icon after his death.
Oliver Cromwell banned Christmas in 1647 as part of a larger effort to purge English society of perceived sinful activities. The traditional Christmas festivities were replaced with somber prayers and sermons in London. Cromwell's government also restricted theater and dancing, ruling England with an iron fist.