A founding myth is a story or myth surrounding the foundation of a nation-state.

In some cases, the story is unrelated to the actual founding history of the country, such as the establishment of Rome by Romulus and Remus.

In other cases, the popular conception of the historical founding events carries an air of increased nobility or other sentiment, or includes stories and traditions based only loosely on actual events. Noble actions and events are often emphasized, while other parts of the history are largely forgotten. Many times historical figures - especially political and military rulers - become glorified as heros or even as semi-divine.