Historical forgery refers to the act of creating or altering documents, artifacts, or artworks to misrepresent their authenticity or origin. This practice can involve anything from fake manuscripts to counterfeit paintings, often aimed at deceiving collectors, historians, or the public. Notable examples include the Piltdown Man, a fabricated fossil that misled scientists for decades. The motivations behind historical forgery can vary, including financial gain, personal ambition, or the desire to influence historical narratives. Such forgeries can significantly impact our understanding of history, as they may lead to false conclusions about cultural heritage or the art world.