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Myth America
Find Out What Has Been Kept Secret from You

RICK SHENKMAN

Did you know that:

- The Pilgrims did NOT land on Plymouth Rock?
- Betsy Ross did NOT sew the first flag?

In this humorous presentation, historian Rick explains why Americans are fond of myths and he clarifies who's behind the falsehoods. His research shows that many of the myths are the product of a concerted campaign in the 19th century to turn Americans into patriotic nationalists. Today the myths are perpetuated by government bureaucracies afraid of letting Americans in on the big secret. Schools are frightened of creating controversy. Tourist boards are scared of driving away visitors who come to see the shrines they learned to revere as children. Politicians quail before the powerful super patriotic groups that are determined to use history to advance their own biased agenda.

Thoreau said that we remember only what is important. But Americans seem to remember from their history all that's mythical. With time the facts fade. But the myths go on and on.