History vs. Myth

Conspiracy theories should not be viewed in a negative light, but rather as modern myths and legends that may hold some hidden truths. Like science fiction, they inspire us, capture our imagination, and force us to ask, “what if?” And while some should not be taken seriously, but rather enjoyed like a good series or novel, we should never immediately discount a tale simply because it is labeled as a “conspiracy theory”.

Many scientists credit their success in their field from watching movies like Star Wars and Star Trek. In fact, they try to replicate the technology that others have made up to make real-world products. Why shouldn’t historians take a similar approach? How different would our books read if historians dared to question the current narrative and pushed the boundaries of their field?

An example of this can be seen in one of the history’s oldest “conspiracy theories”, the Trojan War. Long believed to be myth and legend, it was eventually proven to be a historical event. This only came to be thanks to the persistence of historians who refused to accept the status quo of their field.

Now, imagine how many other myths and legends, both past and recent, have more truth to them then we currently believe. And, with that in mind, it begs the question, “How many historical “facts” may need to be examined with a more imaginative approach?” #FindYourHill