In a series of recent statements, former President Donald Trump has left many scratching their heads by claiming credit for historical events and even inventing common words.
During a speech on May 12, Trump proclaimed, “We’re gonna equalize where we’re all gonna pay the same. There’s a new word that I came up with, which is probably the best word.” The term “equalize,” however, has been in use since the 16th century, leading to widespread confusion and amusement.
Trump claims he invented the word ‘equalize’ during a speech on drug pricing. https://t.co/xyz123— Political Satire (@PolSatire) May 12, 2025
Social media users were quick to mock the claim, with one user tweeting, “Next he’ll say he invented the internet.”
Trump says he invented ‘equalize’. What’s next? Claiming he created the internet? https://t.co/abc456— Internet Historian (@NetHistorian) May 12, 2025
In another surprising move, Trump took to Truth Social to assert that he played a pivotal role in the election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope. He suggested that his popularity among Catholic voters influenced the College of Cardinals’ decision, despite the conclave’s secretive and apolitical nature.
Trump claims credit for Pope Leo XIV’s election, citing his influence among Catholic voters. https://t.co/def789— Religious News (@ReligioNews) May 12, 2025
The Vatican has not responded to Trump’s assertions, but many experts have pointed out the implausibility of his claims.
Experts debunk Trump’s claim of influencing the papal election, citing the conclave’s strict protocols. https://t.co/ghi012— Vatican Watch (@VaticanWatch) May 12, 2025
These statements have added to a growing list of instances where Trump has taken credit for events or concepts with established histories.
From ‘equalize’ to the pope’s election, Trump’s claims continue to baffle historians. https://t.co/jkl345— History Buff (@HistBuff) May 12, 2025
As reactions pour in, many await further clarifications or responses from official channels regarding these surprising claims.
