Grigori Rasputin: The Mad Monk
The myth of the mad monk I love the Russian Revolutionary period in the early twentieth century, Buzzkillers. It’s one of those exciting and dramatic episodes of modern history that …
Chief Seattle’s Famous Speech
Lost in translation “Quotations” from Chief Seattle (c.1786-1866), particularly those that have an ecological tone, appear on posters, photographs, and monuments. These “quotes” are used almost everywhere that people want …
The Myth Surrounding “Amazing Grace”
Did you know the author of “Amazing Grace” was once a slave trader? Amazing Grace, the hymn published by the Anglican clergyman John Newton (1725-1807) in 1779, is one of …
St. Patrick’s Day Myths
Is St. Patrick’s Day more of an American tradition? What can possibly be wrong with St. Patrick’s Day? Not much, except that there’s very little historical basis behind stories about …
USS Indianapolis
The story behind the ship, its crew and its captain Our episode on the Atomic Bomb has had a tremendous response! Buzzkillers from around the world have been emailing, Facebooking …
“Washington Crossing the Delaware”
“Americans will cross a frozen river to kill you in your sleep on Christmas.” -Unknown The painting “Washington Crossing the Delaware” (1851) by Emanuel Gottlieb Leutze (1816-1868) is one of most …
The Atomic Bombs
Mic dropping bomb myths The development and use of the atomic bombs during World War II was one of the most controversial historical events of the 20th century. Should it …
The Many Myths about Rosa Parks
“The Only Tired I was, was Tired of Giving In” The general story we’re all taught about Rosa Parks was that she was a meek and mild housewife who refused …
