fakelore

Fakelore is a term used in folklore studies to describe material that is presented as genuine traditional folklore but is created or heavily shaped in modern times by authors, publishers, marketers, or political movements. Unlike authentic folklore, which arises through long-standing oral transmission within communities, fakelore often has a traceable origin in print, film, or other media and is marketed or framed as ancient or customary.

It mimics the shape of traditional lore—folk tales, songs, proverbs, myths, rituals, or place-based legends—complete with supposed origins, ancestral authorities, and a sense of "folk" authenticity. Yet the content is typically modern, designed to feel timeless or to serve a particular purpose, whether entertainment, national myth-making, or commercial branding.

Origins and spread of fakelore can be deliberate fabrication or the result of reinterpretation or repackaging of contemporary material as if it were traditional. It travels through books, television, tourism materials, school curricula, and online platforms, which can blur the line between genuine folklore and invented material.

Impact and reception of fakelore are debated within scholarship. Critics argue that fakelore can misrepresent living cultures, appropriate traditions, or propagate misleading histories. Proponents sometimes view it as a reflection of contemporary concerns and a way to engage audiences with folklore-like forms. Distinguishing fakelore from genuine folklore typically involves examining provenance, transmission, and community validation.

Related terms include urban legends, pseudo-history, and heritage branding. Fakelore highlights tensions between authenticity, authorship, and the evolving nature of cultural expression.