Historical Figures That May Or May Not Have Actually Existed

Published on July 20, 2021
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As humans, we gravitate towards grandiose stories of brave leaders, mythological beings, and incredible minds. Often our histories and folklores are intertwined. There are countless historical figures that have shaped our society, but have you ever wondered if they all really existed? Many researchers and historians have dedicated their life’s work in order to find out the answer to this question. Here are some famous people you’ve definitely heard of that may not have definitely ever existed.

Mulan

Although most of us know Mulan from the Disney animated feature, she was already a legendary figure in China. Many scholars are divided on whether she was a real person or not. The Ballad of Mulan first appeared in the Musical Records of Old and New during the Southern Chen dynasty in the 6th century.

Mulan

Mulan

King Arthur

While King Arthur has been a legendary British leader in many books, plays, films, and TV shows, most modern historians agree that he is an unhistorical figure. Most of the stories surrounding King Arthur come from English and Welsh folklore as well as literary invention.

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King Arthur

King Arthur