Historical Examples of

Fake and Misleading News

Examples of Misleading and Fake News are not just found in contemporary times. The following examples can give an historical perspective on the topic.

I will continue to update this page. As suggestions are given, I will list them under the appropriate category so that you will know that the topics are being developed.

Damnatio Memoriae

Including a section on damnatio memoriae—the political adjustments of history—was recommended by Michael Swope because students need to be conscious of historiography so they have an understanding of how history is shaped and how it can be used and abused for political ends. They also need to be aware that history can and does change based on new discoveries or new perspectives on events. An excellent article concerning damnatio memoriae is Karl Smallwood's Damnatio Memoriae: When the Romans Purposely Erased People from History."

Historical Categories

Ancient World

Early Modern World

Modern World

Early American

Nineteenth Century American

Contemporary American


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Logo for the Museum of Hoaxes.

"The Museum of Hoaxes was established in 1997. It explores deception, mischief, and misinformation throughout history, playing host to a variety of humbugs and hoodwinks — from ancient fakery all the way up to modern schemes, dupes, and dodges that circulate online." [recommended by David Grant Smith]