Printable Coloring Pages
Legends of History Coloring Pages
Welcome to our exciting new collection of coloring pages that take you on a journey through the lives of legendary heroes! These figures lived long ago, but their incredible stories have been told and retold over centuries, mixing history with a bit of myth and magic.
As we explore these tales, we'll learn about real people whose extraordinary deeds made them legends. Sometimes it's tricky to separate the facts from the fantastical, but that's what makes history so fascinating! By looking closely at their stories and practicing critical thinking, we can form our own opinions about which parts are based on real events and which parts have been added over time to make the tales even more thrilling.
So get ready to embark on the adventures of brave warriors, wise leaders, and heroic explorers. As you color, imagine the world they lived in and think about the real and mythical parts of their amazing lives. Let's have fun uncovering the truth behind the legends together, using our minds to judge the truth of the stories we encounter!
Gilgamesh - Sumerian king and epic hero (circa 2800-2500 BCE)
Gilgamesh was a mighty king of the ancient city of Uruk, which was in what we now call Iraq. His story is one of the oldest known tales in the world, called the Epic of Gilgamesh. In this epic, Gilgamesh is not only a powerful ruler but also part-god, known for his incredible strength and bravery.
According to the legend, Gilgamesh went on a series of amazing adventures. He fought fearsome monsters, befriended the wild man Enkidu, and even searched for the secret of eternal life. These stories show us how people in ancient times imagined their heroes and gods.
But did you know that Gilgamesh was also a real person? He was an actual king who ruled thousands of years ago. While the details of his legendary deeds might be exaggerated, they help us understand how the people of his time viewed their leaders and heroes.
As you color Gilgamesh, think about how his real-life actions might have inspired the incredible tales that have been passed down through the ages. What parts do you think are true, and what parts might have been added to make his story even more exciting?
Achilles - Greek hero of the Trojan War (circa 12th century BCE)
Achilles is one of the greatest heroes in Greek mythology, known for his incredible strength, bravery, and near invincibility. He is a central character in the ancient epic poem "The Iliad," which tells the story of the Trojan War. According to the legend, Achilles was the son of a mortal king and the sea nymph Thetis, who dipped him in the magical River Styx to make him invulnerable, except for his heel.
In "The Iliad," Achilles is depicted as a fierce warrior who plays a crucial role in the Greek victory over Troy. His rage and prowess in battle are legendary, but his story also explores themes of friendship, honor, and fate. Despite his near invincibility, Achilles meets his end when an arrow strikes his only vulnerable spot—his heel—giving us the term "Achilles' heel" to describe a person's weakness.
But was Achilles a real person? While there is no historical evidence that Achilles existed, his story is likely inspired by the real experiences and values of ancient Greek warriors. The blending of myth and history in his tale highlights the importance of heroism and valor in Greek culture.
As you color Achilles, imagine the world of ancient Greece with its epic battles and heroic deeds. Think about how real warriors' actions might have inspired the incredible tales of Achilles. What parts do you think could be true, and what parts were added to make his story more legendary?
Odysseus - Greek hero of the Odyssey (circa 12th century BCE)
Odysseus is a legendary hero from ancient Greek mythology, best known for his long and adventurous journey home after the Trojan War, as told in the epic poem "The Odyssey." He was the king of Ithaca and renowned for his cleverness, resourcefulness, and leadership.
Odysseus’s journey home took ten years, during which he faced numerous challenges and dangers. He encountered mythical creatures like the Cyclops, outwitted the enchantress Circe, navigated past the deadly Sirens, and survived the wrath of the sea god Poseidon. His intelligence and cunning were crucial in overcoming these obstacles and eventually returning to his wife, Penelope, and son, Telemachus.
But was Odysseus a real person? While there is no concrete evidence that Odysseus himself existed, his story is likely based on the experiences of many seafarers and warriors from ancient Greece. The epic tales reflect the values and beliefs of the time, celebrating bravery, loyalty, and cleverness.
As you color Odysseus, picture the ancient Greek world with its gods, monsters, and heroic quests. Think about how real seafaring adventures might have inspired the legendary tales of Odysseus. What parts do you think are based on true events, and what parts have been added to make his story more extraordinary?
Aeneas - Trojan hero and legendary founder of Rome (circa 12th-11th century BCE)
Aeneas is a legendary hero from ancient Roman mythology, known for his role in the epic poem "The Aeneid" by Virgil. He was a Trojan prince, the son of the goddess Venus and the mortal Anchises. After the fall of Troy, Aeneas embarked on a perilous journey to find a new homeland for his people, which eventually led him to Italy.
During his adventures, Aeneas faced numerous challenges, including battling fierce enemies, enduring dangerous sea voyages, and overcoming personal loss. His journey was guided by the gods, and he was destined to become the ancestor of the Roman people. Aeneas’s story is one of duty, perseverance, and piety, as he put the needs of his people above his own desires.
But was Aeneas a real person? While Aeneas himself is a mythical figure, his story reflects the Roman values of bravery, loyalty, and divine destiny. The tale of Aeneas's journey and the founding of Rome is a blend of history and myth, celebrating the origins of the Roman civilization.
As you color Aeneas, picture the ancient world with its gods, heroes, and epic adventures. Think about how the real experiences of people and historical events might have inspired the legendary tales of Aeneas. What parts do you think are based on true events, and what parts have been added to make his story more legendary?
Queen of Sheba - Legendary figure in Jewish, Islamic, and Ethiopian traditions (circa 10th century BCE)
The Queen of Sheba is a legendary figure known for her intelligence, wealth, and beauty. She is mentioned in various ancient texts, including the Bible, the Quran, and Ethiopian traditions. According to the most famous story, the Queen of Sheba traveled to Jerusalem to meet King Solomon, bringing with her a caravan laden with gold, spices, and precious stones.
During her visit, she tested Solomon's wisdom with difficult questions and was impressed by his answers and his kingdom's splendor. Their encounter is often seen as a meeting of great minds and symbolizes the exchange of knowledge and wealth between distant lands.
But was the Queen of Sheba a real person? While her exact identity and kingdom remain a mystery, she is believed to have ruled over a rich and powerful kingdom in what is now modern-day Ethiopia or Yemen. Her story reflects the ancient trade networks and cultural exchanges that connected different parts of the world.
As you color the Queen of Sheba, imagine the grandeur of her kingdom and the fascinating journey she undertook to meet King Solomon. Think about how real historical events and people might have inspired the legendary tales of the Queen of Sheba. What parts do you think are based on true events, and what parts have been added to make her story more captivating?
Arjuna - Legendary hero of the Indian epic Mahabharata (circa 9th-8th century BCE)
Arjuna is one of the greatest heroes in Indian mythology, known for his role in the ancient epic, the Mahabharata. He was a prince of the Pandava dynasty, a skilled archer, and a warrior of immense bravery and virtue. Arjuna's story is filled with epic battles, divine guidance, and profound lessons.
One of the most famous parts of Arjuna's story is his conversation with the god Krishna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra, known as the Bhagavad Gita. In this sacred dialogue, Krishna imparts spiritual wisdom and guidance to Arjuna, helping him understand his duty as a warrior and the nature of righteousness.
But was Arjuna a real person? While Arjuna is a central figure in the Mahabharata, his story blends historical elements with myth and spiritual teachings. The epic reflects the values and beliefs of ancient Indian culture, emphasizing themes of duty, honor, and the struggle between good and evil.
As you color Arjuna, picture the ancient Indian world with its grand palaces, fierce battles, and divine interventions. Think about how the real experiences of people and historical events might have inspired the legendary tales of Arjuna. What parts do you think are based on true events, and what parts have been added to make his story more extraordinary?
King Arthur - Legendary British leader (circa 5th-6th century)
King Arthur is one of the most famous legendary figures in history. He is often depicted as the noble king of Camelot, a magical castle, and the leader of the Knights of the Round Table. His stories are filled with chivalry, bravery, and magical elements, like the wizard Merlin and the sword Excalibur.
According to the legends, King Arthur defended Britain against invaders and went on numerous quests, including the famous search for the Holy Grail. His tales are full of adventure, friendship, and the fight between good and evil.
But was King Arthur real? Many historians believe that the stories of King Arthur are based on a real person or a combination of several historical figures who lived around the fifth and sixth centuries. These stories have grown over time, with each telling adding more mythical elements.
As you color King Arthur, imagine the world of knights, castles, and epic battles. Think about how his real-life actions might have inspired these fantastic stories. Which parts do you think are based on true events, and which parts are legendary embellishments?
Mulan - Legendary Chinese warrior woman (circa 4th-5th century)
Mulan is a legendary figure from ancient China, known for her bravery and devotion to her family. According to the famous Chinese poem "The Ballad of Mulan," she disguised herself as a man to take her father's place in the army. Her courage and skill in battle made her a celebrated hero.
Mulan's story tells of her training hard, fighting bravely, and earning the respect of her fellow soldiers. After many years of service, she returns home with honor, revealing her true identity to the amazement of her comrades.
But was Mulan a real person? While there are no definitive historical records proving her existence, her story has been cherished in Chinese culture for centuries. It reflects the values of loyalty, bravery, and love for one's family. Over time, the legend of Mulan has inspired countless adaptations in literature, theater, and film.
As you color Mulan, imagine her as both a historical figure and a legendary heroine. Think about how her story might have been based on the real experiences of women in ancient China who showed extraordinary courage. What parts do you think could be true, and what parts have been added to make her story more inspiring and memorable?
Beowulf - Legendary Geatish hero (circa 6th century)
Beowulf is a legendary hero from one of the oldest surviving epic poems in English literature. His story is a tale of immense strength, bravery, and loyalty. According to the epic, Beowulf was a Geatish warrior who came to the aid of the Danish king Hrothgar, whose hall was being terrorized by the fearsome monster Grendel.
In his adventures, Beowulf not only defeats Grendel but also battles Grendel's vengeful mother and, in his final act of heroism, slays a dragon threatening his own kingdom. These incredible feats showcase his superhuman abilities and unwavering courage.
But was Beowulf a real person? The story of Beowulf, though rooted in historical settings and events from the early medieval period, is largely considered a work of fiction. However, it reflects the values and culture of the time, highlighting the importance of heroism, loyalty, and reputation in the warrior society.
As you color Beowulf, think about the blend of history and myth in his story. Imagine the real warriors of the past whose deeds might have inspired such epic tales. What parts of Beowulf's story do you think could be based on real events, and what parts were likely added to make his legend even more extraordinary?
Ragnar Lothbrok - Legendary Norse Viking hero and king (circa 9th century)
Ragnar Lothbrok is a legendary Viking hero whose tales are filled with adventure, bravery, and cunning. According to the sagas, he was a mighty warrior and a fearless sea-farer who led his people on daring raids across Europe. His story includes battles with fearsome enemies and even a quest for revenge.
Ragnar's legend says he was a descendant of the god Odin and that he fathered many famous sons who continued his legacy. He is often depicted wearing distinctive, rugged clothing and carrying a fierce axe.
But did Ragnar Lothbrok really exist? Historians believe that his legend is likely based on several real Viking leaders from the ninth century. Over time, their deeds and stories were woven together into the larger-than-life figure of Ragnar. The sagas and tales were passed down through generations, mixing history with myth.
As you color Ragnar Lothbrok, picture the world of the Vikings with their longships and adventurous spirit. Consider how the real actions of Viking leaders might have inspired the incredible tales of Ragnar. What do you think is historical fact, and what has been added to make his story more legendary?
El Cid - Spanish knight and hero (1043-1099 CE)
El Cid, also known as Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, is a legendary Spanish hero celebrated for his military prowess and chivalry during the medieval period. Born around 1043 AD, El Cid was a nobleman and a formidable warrior who played a crucial role in the Reconquista, the series of campaigns by Christian states to recapture territory from the Moors.
El Cid's most famous exploits are captured in the epic poem "El Cantar de Mio Cid." He is depicted as a loyal vassal, a skilled strategist, and a brave fighter who won many battles against overwhelming odds. His reputation for honor and valor earned him the respect of both his allies and his enemies.
But was El Cid a real person? Yes, Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar was a historical figure, and many of his deeds are well-documented. However, over time, his story has been embellished with legendary elements, turning him into a larger-than-life hero whose tale combines fact and fiction.
As you color El Cid, imagine the medieval world with its castles, knights, and epic battles. Think about how the real actions of this historical figure might have inspired the legendary tales of El Cid. What parts do you think are based on true events, and what parts have been added to make his story more legendary?
Sundiata Keita - Founder of the Mali Empire, also known as the Lion King of Mali (circa 1217-1255 CE)
Sundiata Keita is a legendary figure and the founder of the Mali Empire in West Africa, one of the largest and wealthiest empires of its time. Born in the early 13th century, Sundiata overcame great adversity to unite the Mandinka people and establish a powerful and prosperous kingdom. His story is told in the epic "Sundiata," which has been passed down through generations by West African griots, or storytellers.
According to the epic, Sundiata was born to a king and a hunchbacked woman, and despite early challenges, including being unable to walk until he was older, he rose to greatness. He is celebrated for his wisdom, bravery, and ability to inspire loyalty among his followers. Sundiata led his people to victory against the oppressive Sosso king, Sumanguru, and laid the foundations for a thriving empire that became a center of trade, culture, and learning.
But was Sundiata Keita a real person? Yes, Sundiata was a historical figure, and his reign marked a significant period in West African history. However, his story, like many epic tales, blends historical facts with mythical elements, highlighting his extraordinary achievements and the values of his culture.
As you color Sundiata Keita, imagine the rich and vibrant world of the Mali Empire with its bustling markets, grand palaces, and scholarly centers. Think about how the real actions of this remarkable leader might have inspired the legendary tales of Sundiata. What parts do you think are based on true events, and what parts have been added to make his story even more inspiring?
Joan of Arc - French heroine with visions (1412-1431 CE)
Joan of Arc is a legendary heroine of France, known for her extraordinary courage, divine visions, and mystical experiences. Born in 1412 in a small village, Joan began to hear the voices of saints—Saint Michael, Saint Catherine, and Saint Margaret—at the age of 13. These voices, she believed, were guiding her to help save France from English domination during the Hundred Years' War.
Despite her young age and lack of military training, Joan's unwavering faith and conviction convinced the French Dauphin (prince) Charles to let her lead an army to lift the siege of Orléans. Her leadership and inspiring presence led to a series of significant victories for the French, and she played a crucial role in the coronation of Charles VII, boosting the morale of the French people and troops.
Joan's mystical visions and divine guidance set her apart from other leaders, making her a figure of both historical significance and legendary mystique. Her belief in her divine mission was so strong that it inspired those around her to follow her into battle against great odds. However, Joan was eventually captured by the English and their allies, put on trial for heresy, and executed at the age of 19. She was later canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church.
But was Joan of Arc a real person? Yes, Joan was a historical figure whose life and deeds are well-documented. Her story combines the real events of her military campaigns and her trial with the mystical elements of her visions and divine guidance. To this day, whether her divine guidance was truth or legend is something that people don't all agree on.
As you color Joan of Arc, picture the medieval world with its castles, knights, and epic battles, and imagine the powerful impact of her mystical visions. Think about how the real actions of this brave young woman, inspired by her divine experiences, might have given rise to the legendary tales of her miracles and saintly guidance. What parts do you think are based on true events, and what parts have been added to make her story more extraordinary and inspirational?
Vlad the Impaler (Dracula) - Romanian prince with a mythical vampire association (1431-1476 CE)
Vlad the Impaler, also known as Vlad III or Vlad Dracula, was a 15th-century ruler of Wallachia, a region in what is now Romania. He is infamous for his brutal methods of punishment, especially his penchant for impaling his enemies, which earned him his fearsome nickname. Vlad’s harsh tactics were part of his efforts to defend his lands from the Ottoman Empire and maintain order.
Vlad the Impaler’s real-life exploits became the inspiration for the legendary vampire Count Dracula, created by Bram Stoker in his 1897 novel "Dracula." While the fictional Dracula is a bloodthirsty vampire living in a spooky castle, the real Vlad was a fierce and often ruthless leader known for his uncompromising approach to rule and defense.
But was Vlad the Impaler truly as monstrous as the legends suggest? While he was undoubtedly a harsh ruler, his actions were often driven by the turbulent and violent times in which he lived. His story reflects the complex nature of historical figures, where fact and legend intertwine.
As you color Vlad the Impaler, picture the medieval castles and the battles fought in the rugged landscapes of Eastern Europe. Think about how the real actions of Vlad Dracula might have inspired the chilling tales of the fictional Dracula. What parts do you think are based on true events, and what parts have been added to create his legendary and fearsome image?
Robin Hood - English folk hero (circa 12th-13th century CE)
Robin Hood coloring pagesRobin Hood is a legendary figure known for his daring exploits as an outlaw in medieval England. According to the tales, Robin Hood was a skilled archer and swordsman who stole from the rich to give to the poor. He lived with his band of Merry Men in Sherwood Forest, near the town of Nottingham, and constantly outwitted the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham and other authorities.
Robin Hood's stories are filled with adventure, cunning plans, and a strong sense of justice. He is often depicted as a champion of the common people, fighting against oppression and tyranny. His legendary band of companions, including Little John, Friar Tuck, and Maid Marian, add to the rich tapestry of his myth.
But was Robin Hood a real person? While there is no definitive historical evidence proving the existence of Robin Hood, the legend may have been inspired by various historical figures and events. The stories of Robin Hood have evolved over centuries, blending historical elements with folklore and myth.
As you color Robin Hood, imagine the lush forests of medieval England and the daring escapades of this heroic outlaw. Think about how the real struggles of people during that time might have inspired the legendary tales of Robin Hood. What parts do you think are based on true events, and what parts have been added to make his story more legendary and inspiring?
Lawrence of Arabia - British archaeologist (August 16, 1888, to May 19, 1935)
T.E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, is a legendary figure whose real-life exploits during World War I have become the stuff of myth and legend. Born in 1888, Lawrence was a British archaeologist, military officer, and diplomat who played a key role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire.
Sounds cool doesn't he? But was he really a hero?
A "Hero" of Broken Promises: Lawrence promised Arab leaders, such as Emir Faisal, that the British would support the establishment of an independent Arab state in the aftermath of World War I. However, the Sykes-Picot Agreement between Britain and France, which divided the Middle Eastern territories into spheres of influence, contradicted these promises. This betrayal led to significant resentment and mistrust among Arab leaders and populations.
Lawrence's deep understanding of Middle Eastern culture and his ability to unite various Arab tribes earned him a revered place in history. His daring raids, strategic brilliance, and charismatic leadership were instrumental in the successes of the Arab forces.
However, his actions and motivations are viewed differently depending on one's perspective. To some, he was a heroic liberator fighting for the independence of Arab peoples; to others, he was a manipulative agent of British imperialism, advancing his country's interests at the expense of local autonomy.
Lawrence’s story was further immortalized by his own writings and the epic 1962 film "Lawrence of Arabia," which blended fact with dramatic storytelling, adding to his complex legacy.
So was T.E. Lawrence’s life as extraordinary as the legends suggest? While he was undoubtedly a remarkable and influential figure, many of the tales surrounding his exploits have been embellished over time. His autobiographical account, "Seven Pillars of Wisdom," mixes meticulous detail with a touch of romanticism, further complicating his image as both a hero and a controversial figure.
As you color T.E. Lawrence, imagine the vast deserts and the thrilling adventures of this real-life hero and villain, depending on your point of view. Think about how the real actions and achievements of Lawrence might have inspired the legendary tales that have grown around him. What parts do you think are based on true events, and what parts have been added to create his larger-than-life story?
As we finish our exploration of these legendary heroes, it's important to remember the value of critical thinking. In today's world, we encounter many stories and pieces of information, especially online. Not everything we read is always true, stories can be a mix of facts and imagination, and part of being a smart explorer of history is knowing how to separate fact from fiction.
When you hear a tale that seems amazing or too good to be true, take a moment to think and ask questions. Where did this story come from? Are there real historical events or people behind it? By being curious and a little bit skeptical, you can uncover the true stories behind the legends.
Keep your mind open, ask lots of questions, and enjoy the adventure of learning. History is full of fascinating tales, and by thinking carefully, you can discover what’s real and what’s been added to make the stories even more exciting. Happy coloring, and remember to always keep your critical thinking hat on!