Every society (or group of people) in the world has its own stories. Some of these stories have been around for hundreds, even thousands of years. When amazing stories are told for long enough, they can become myths and legends.

 

It might seem hard to believe, but myths and legends can sometimes be powerful enough to shape the way people behave in a society. They can change what people believe, and that can affect the way they behave.

 

One of Ireland’s most popular stories tells of the warrior Finn MacCool. He had a rough start to life, but he was always tough—even as a baby.

 

Finn was the king’s grandson. Just before Finn’s birth, the king was warned that his new grandson would grow up and take away the kingdom. The king didn’t want to lose his place on the throne, so when his grandson was born, he threw him into a lake!

 

After Finn disappeared under the water, the king was sure the baby was gone, so he left. But the baby was just holding its breath. When Finn bobbed back up, not only was he still alive, but he’d also caught a fish!