In the catalogue of common beliefs about World War II, the idea that Hitler was a military genius has endured. He is believed to have conquered and subjected to his authority nearly all of Continental Europe. But this is, in fact, a myth.

It's long been without doubt: the Marshall Plan saved Europe from the misery and chaos instilled by World War II. But this is, in fact, a myth. Many specialists have long questioned its utility.

For most of our contemporaries, the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were the reason for Japan's surrender. But while this notion may not be entirely incorrect, it omits the role of a key player in winding down the Second World War: the Red Army.

On October 1 1949 after years of revolutionary struggle Mao Zedong proclaims the People's Republic of China aiming to restore its legendary strength and past glory.