613

Stupid History


Classification

Series Number: 618
Genre: Humor
Series:
Condition: New
Read: ✓
Shelf: 10
Goodreads: Yes

General

Subtitle: Tales of Stupidity, Strangeness, and Mythconceptions Throughout the Ages
Author: Gregory, Leland
Binding: Softback
Cover Price: 9.99
Amazon Link: Buy from Amazon.com

Publishing

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing
Copyright Year: 2007
Publication Year: 2007
ISBN#: 0-7407-6054-8
LCCN#: 2006932202
Pages: 320
Address: Kansas City, Mo
Dewey Decimal: 900
LoC Classification: D10 .G74 2007
ISSN#:

Comments

Why exactly is Paul Revere revered? Was the lightbulb really Thomas Edison's bright idea?

* Best-selling author Leland Gregory employs his masterful wit to expose historical myths, faux "facts," strange events, and tales of human stupidity throughout history.

If it would shock you to learn that Benjamin Franklin didn't discover electricity, you'll appreciate this take on hundreds of historical legends and debacles. Historians and humorists alike may be surprised to learn that:

* Samuel Prescott made the famous horseback ride into Concord, not Paul Revere.

* As a member of Parliament, Isaac Newton spoke only once. He asked for an open window.

* On April 24, 1898, Spain declared war on the U.S., thus starting the Spanish-American War. The U.S. declared war the very next day, but not wanting to be outdone, had the date on the declaration changed from April 25 to April 21.

With these and many other stories, leading humorist Leland Gregory once again highlights both the strange and the funny side of humankind.