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Twisted History brings to life the incredible stories of 32 historical figures -- murderers, assassins and traitors who embraced the dark side, and martyrs and innocents who paid with their lives in the pursuit of good. All changed world history. The book is lavishly illustrated with stunning illustrations and period photographs. Accessible text and fact boxes describe evil and angelic acts across the centuries, like Judas, whose name would come to define betrayal, Joan of Arc, victorious virgin soldier and patron saint of France, and René Goupil, tortured and martyred by Native Americans, who became the first American saint. Twisted History puts readers face to face with vile villains and true heroes. They include: William Wallace, the Scottish hero who was hanged, drawn and quartered by the English for high treason (c.1270-1305) Vlad the Impaler, who enjoyed torturing and impaling his victims (1431-76) Bernie Madoff (1938- ), architect of the biggest financial scam in history, a $65-billion Ponzi scheme that shattered banks, insurance companies and private investors Kazuo Taoka, boss of the most powerful and merciless Japanese yakuza gang (1913-81). Twisted History is an engaging, informative and gripping read for all teen and adult readers.