Why do some people keep their spot in the “hero” hall of fame—despite having done things that would shock most of us today? History is full of folks who were widely regarded as a hero in their time (and sometimes even now), but whose real actions tell a much more complicated story.

Let’s take a closer look at some famous names who’re celebrated for their achievements, yet had darker sides that don’t always make it into the textbooks.

The Problem With Hero Worship

It’s easy to put people up on pedestals when all we see are their greatest hits—whether it’s winning battles or changing the course of science. But when we look deeper into their lives and choices, things can get messy fast.

Often, our view of these “heroes” is shaped by movies, school lessons, or popular media that leave out inconvenient facts. As Smithsonian Magazine points out, even beloved figures can have flaws or make decisions that clash with today’s values.

Famous Figures With Dark Secrets

Here are just a few examples of individuals who are—or were—widely regarded as heroes:

• Thomas Edison: Known for inventing the lightbulb and phonograph. Less known for his aggressive tactics against competitors and questionable treatment of inventors like Nikola Tesla.
• Cecil Rhodes: Celebrated for building an empire in Africa and founding the Rhodes Scholarship. His legacy includes colonialism and policies that fueled racial segregation.
• Mahatma Gandhi: Revered worldwide for nonviolent resistance in India’s independence movement. Yet some historians highlight controversial views on race and personal conduct during his time in South Africa.
• Christopher Columbus: Hailed for “discovering” America; responsible for brutal treatment of indigenous peoples.
• Mother Teresa: Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for helping Calcutta’s poor. Critics—including writers like Christopher Hitchens—have questioned her approach to care and connections with questionable donors (BBC).
• Winston Churchill: Led Britain through World War II with unshakeable resolve. His policies regarding India and colonial regions remain deeply controversial (History.com).

These examples aren’t meant to erase their achievements—but to show that history rarely fits into simple categories of “good” or “bad.”

Anecdote: When History Class Got Complicated

A friend once told me about her high school project on Thomas Jefferson—America’s third president and author of the Declaration of Independence. She started off proud to present on someone so widely regarded as a hero in American democracy. But then she learned about Jefferson’s life as a slave owner and his complicated relationship with Sally Hemings.

The deeper she dug into primary sources (like those from Monticello.org, Jefferson’s estate), the harder it became to deliver her report without addressing both his brilliance and his failings. Her classmates were surprised—some even upset—to hear about this side of Jefferson that didn’t match up with what they’d always been taught.

That project sparked more honest class discussions about how we remember our heroes—and why it matters to see them fully.

Why We Need Honest Conversations About Our Heroes

Peeling back the layers on these well-known names can feel uncomfortable or even disappointing—but it’s necessary if we want to learn from history instead of just repeating its mistakes.

Looking at both achievements and shortcomings helps us:

• Avoid putting anyone on an untouchable pedestal
• Recognize that everyone—even “heroes”—is human and fallible
• Spot patterns where power leads to abuse or blind spots
• Create space for more inclusive stories from people often left out of mainstream history
• Cultivate critical thinking (not just memorizing names and dates)

For an example of how complicated legacies get handled today, check out this discussion from National Geographic, which covers how cities are rethinking statues and monuments dedicated to controversial historical figures.

The Takeaway—and Your Thoughts?

So next time you see someone widely regarded as a hero getting praised in documentaries or textbooks, consider looking beneath the surface story. Chances are there’s more complexity than meets the eye—and understanding those messy truths can help us build a more honest relationship with our past.

Which historical figure do you think deserves a second look? Are there any “heroes” whose stories you used to admire—until you learned something new? Share your thoughts below!