3 Review(s)

Widely praised following its initial publication, "Founding Myths" is a page turner created out of the material of American history primers. Re-examining thirteen well-known tales from the American struggle for independence, the book documents the errors and inventions that permeate these cherished national myths - myths that are often still taught in American history classes. Engaging and eye-opening, Ray Raphael's bold and provocative book retells the story of Paul Revere's midnight ride, which turns out to have involved far more than one rider; Patrick Henry's famous (and fictitious) 'Give Me Liberty' speech; and the made-up character of Molly Pitcher, among many others. Raphael cleverly demonstrates how these stories evolved over time. And in each case, he offers an alternative version, one that is both more historically accurate, more in touch with the nation's democratic ideals. For anyone who is curious about the true story of the nation's founding, and for those searching for a genuine chronicle of democratic struggle, "Founding Myths" is American History at its truest and most vital.