Speaker to address popular American myths

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - A presentation at Purdue University on Thursday (Oct. 5) will look at some of the truths, half-truths and falsehoods behind popular American myths.

Richard Shenkman will use humor to talk about myths and why people are so fond of them during the 7:30 p.m. presentation in the Purdue Memorial Union South Ballroom. The event is free and open to the public.

The talk is the first installment of Purdue Student Union Board's Diversity Series this year. Each year, two to four diversity-related events, forums and lectures are included in this series.

Shenkman, a writer, historian, producer, journalist and lecturer, will explain how various myths came into being and who is responsible for perpetuating them. Audience members will have a chance to learn about historical myths and legendary characters and find out if what they know is true.

Shenkman is the author of five history books, including "Legends, Lies, and Cherished Myths of American History," which was on the New York Times' bestseller list for four months. In 1996-97 he wrote, produced and was host of his own television series on The Learning Channel called "Myth America."

Writer: Christy Jones, (765) 494-1089, christyjones@purdue.edu

Sources: Matthew Klutzke, Purdue Student Union Board event project leader, (765) 494-8976, psub-ideasissues@purdue.edu

Anurag Garg, Purdue Student Union Board director of ideas and issues, (765) 494-8976, psub-ideasandissues@purdue.edu

Beth Riedeman, Purdue Student Union Board adviser, (765) 494-8980, bariedeman@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

Note to Journalists: Media may attend the presentation, but television and radio arrangements must be made in advance with the Purdue Student Union Board. Interviews with the speaker are available in advance by phone. No interviews will be available following the presentation. For information, contact the Purdue Student Union Board office at (765) 494-8976.

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