
Founding Myths
Stories that Hide Our Patriotic Past
Ray Raphael(Author)
The New Press
Published on 4. July 2006
Book
Paperback/Softback
368 pages
978-1-59558-073-3 (ISBN)
Description
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.
Reviews / Votes
"All students of American history will find Raphael's correction of the historical record instructive and enjoyable" - PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY "Founding Myths makes great strides toward challenging conventional myths and broadening our understanding of American history." - INSTITUTE FOR HISTORICAL REVIEW "Historians have long known these truths. Raphael deserves praise for his efforts to have that knowledge trickle down to the rest of us." - SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL "His debunking does not disappoint." - CITY PAPER, (BALTIMORE)"More details
Edition
New edition
Language
English
Place of publication
United Kingdom
Target group
College/higher education
Edition type
New edition
Illustrations
15 Illustrations
Dimensions
Height: 140 mm
Width: 210 mm
Weight
430 gr
ISBN-13
978-1-59558-073-3 (9781595580733)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

E-Book
07/2006
1st Edition
New Press, The
€24.49
Available for download
Person
Ray Raphael is a researcher and writer. A teacher in a one-room public high school for 17 years, he has also taught at Humboldt State University and College of the Redwoods. He is the author of ten previous books, including A People's History of the American Revolution.