What are the most fascinating weird but true historical facts you know about?

History has the answer to so many of our questions. History also has the power over how we move forward with all the information it has in store for us. However, it is not always about bravery and discoveries; many times history can get pretty weird. Here you will explore the “most fascinating weird but true historical facts”.

A Greek Philosopher was killed for his joke

A Greek Philosopher was killed for his joke

In the 3rd century, stoic philosopher Chrysippus, once saw a donkey eat a fig. He then remarked how the donkey should now have a ‘fine glass of wine to wash the fig down’. He found his comment so hilarious that he could not stop laughing and died of laughter.

Marilyn Monroe performed during the Korean War.

Marilyn Monroe performed during the Korean War

As weird as it sounds, yes, Marilyn Monroe did perform for the American troops in Korea in 1954. What makes it even more uncanny is that this performance was a detour from her trip to Japan as a newlywed bride to Joe DiMaggio. Talk about motivation.

The oldest Beatles fan

The oldest Beatles fan

Although most of the Beatles fans were the youngsters of the era, John Mosely-Turner was the oldest, a WWI war veteran. He said that he had no secret to living so long. He said that he simply lived in the moment and did not dwell in the past. 

He enjoyed everything in life and at the moment, it was the Beatles. He was 108 years old and he enjoyed the Beatles. He passed away at the ripe age of 111 nearing 112 and was known for ‘loving pop music’.

Napoleon never started a war.

Napoleon never started a war

Napoleon Bonapart, today, is known as the most courageous man who fought many battles. But contrary to popular belief, he did not go to war. He overlooked the battles and made strategies but, he was barely in any physical danger ever. 

It was not because he wanted to save his skin but, because his soldiers could not afford to lose him. He was in charge of the platoons and he was their guide which won them numerous battles. Hence, he is often remembered as the hero of battles. He did not start wars, but he ended it.

In ancient Egypt, servants were smeared with honey.

a person smeared with honey

In ancient Egypt, servants were smeared with honey but, not out of care for glowing skin. It was done so that the files would fly to them and stick to them, away from the Pharaohs. This made sure that the Pharaohs were not bothered by the files. At least the servants have soft, glowing skins.

I found this shocking and the most fascinating weird but true historical facts.

A tree was found guilty of murder and destroyed.

A tree was found guilty of murder and destroyed

Nero Claudius Drusus was a Roman politician who helped conquer the German territory between the Rhine and Elbe. This brave commander had a very unfortunate death. 

In 20 AD, he threw a pear up in the air and in an attempt to catch it with his mouth, he choked on it. The tree was charged with the attempt to murder and was found guilty. The people then destroyed the tree.

People in ancient Rome collected urine.

People in ancient Rome collected urine

Urine was valued for ammonia. So, it was collected to be sent to Fullocina. It had so many purposes with its main one being used for indigo dye.  Also, it was a sign of wealth in ancient Rome. So it was not unusual for wealthy families to collect urine from the public.

A 38 minutes long war.

historical facts a 38 minutes long war sketch
A 38 minutes long war

The strange death of pro-British Sultan Hamad bin Thuwaini on August 25, 1896, and the subsequent ascension of Sultan Khalid bin Barghash were the direct causes of the war. At 38 to 45 minutes, the battle was the shortest war in history according to official records. 

One British marine was hurt compared to almost 500 defenders who lost their lives. And thus concluded what is arguably the shortest war in history. The 38-minute-long war is a fascinating and peculiar historical fact. However, it’s also a mind-blowing fact because ending any war quickly is good, as I’m not in favor of prolonging conflict at any cost.

Britain stole the tea recipe from China

Britain stole the tea recipe from China

British are avid tea drinkers and it has become a character trait for them around the world. However, the origin of tea is probably what you might be expecting. Tea was not originally grown in Britain. The British East India Company devised a bold scheme to import tea plants from China and grow them in India under British rule at the beginning of the 1800s. 

Robert Fortune, a hired Scottish botanist and plant hunter, was given this desperate job. Does this remind you of how Plankton tried to steal the Krabby Patty Secret recipe from Mr. Krabs? 

Pretty sure, some of these most fascinating weird but true historical facts caught you by surprise even if it was not the whole list. Who would have guessed that the Great Nepolean Bonapart never actually fought in the war? As weird as it is, history is very interesting and this gave us an insight into how different people thought in the past.

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FAQs

What is the weirdest historical fact?

38 minutes was the shortest war in history! The Anglo-Zanzibar War took place between Britain and Zanzibar. The date of this conflict was August 27, 1896.

Which is the most interesting history?

The Greek and Roman empires have had a big impact on their cultures in the Western world.

What is the coolest thing in history?

The Apollo 11 landing in the year 1969 is one of the coolest things in history.

What are creepy facts from history?

In the 1920s, a complete industrial team cheerfully worked with radium; however, most of them perished horribly from radiation poisoning soon after.

What historical fact blows your mind?

The last woolly mammoth went extinct in 1700 BC/BCE. This indicates that the Great Pyramid of Egypt was constructed in 2580 BC/BCE, at a period when the cities of Babylon, Uruk, Harappa, and Mohenjo-Daro were at their heights and wooly mammoths were still a common sight. King Tutankhamun was born in 1342 BC/BCE.

Is history facts?

History is a complicated convergence of truths, biases, and hopes rather than just what happened in the past. A quick look at two radically different historians, the Byzantine Procopius, and the Roman Tacitus, demonstrates the breadth and complexity of historical research.

What are some of the most mind-blowing facts?

Our world is a fascinating place. There is so much wondrous and crazy stuff happening in the world every day. Here is a collection of the most mind-blowing facts, that is bound to take you by surprise. Save this so, you can bring up the facts and impress your friends and family.

An extinct golden mole species resurfaces again.

An extinct golden mole

A rare golden mole rat species resurfaces in South Africa. It was previously deemed extinct because they haven’t been seen in the last 80 years. 

Cows have rights in India. 

Cows have rights in India.

While many countries still struggle with basic human rights, India has a bill for cows. Article 48 states that the cows and calves cannot be slaughtered.

The male brain is bigger than the female brain.

male brain is bigger than the female brain

On average, an adult male’s brain is 10%-15% larger than a female brain. But worry not ladies, female brains have proven to be more efficient when dealing with tasks.

Cannabis can cure cancer.

Cannabis can cure cancer
Cannabis can cure cancer

Cannabis extract THC is an active ingredient in treating symptoms of cancer. People with cancer have stated how marijuana has helped them with nausea, and increased appetite and has helped in soothing anxiety. It also acts as a pain killer which makes cancer patients more willing to go through chemo.

Cucumber can dissolve kidney stones.

Cucumber can dissolve kidney stones

Cucumbers not only keep you hydrated but, they are also a great solvent of calcium oxalate kidney stones.

You use 100% of your brain. 

Contrary to the popular belief that we use only 10% of our brain, we use 100% of our brain! And that is not when you are doing your maths homework but, even when you’re asleep. Makes you wonder how Einstein’s brain worked. 

Your lungs can cover an entire tennis court.

Your lungs can cover an entire tennis court

Your lungs have approximately 300 million alveoli which, can cover about 100 square meters. This is roughly the size of a tennis court. 

You can blind yourself.

If you go blind in one eye, your retinal antigen can elicit a systematic immune response which will affect both eyes. 

Bananas can kill you.

Bananas can kill you

 

Bananas contain potassium. If you consume enough bananas(too many), the high level of potassium in your body will affect your heart rate which may lead to a heart attack. However, the lethal amount will kill you because of overconsumption before the potassium poisoning kicks in.

Tortoises do not live in their shells.

Tortoises do not live in their shells

Unlike what our storybooks told us as kids, tortoises do not live in their shells. They are their shells! 

Tigers are vengeful animals

Tortoises do not live in their shells

Tigers can remember faces and will take revenge on those who have wronged them. They are one of the most vengeful animals on the planet.

Baby walrus can weigh as much as an adult human.

Baby walrus

Baby walruses can weigh up to 120 pounds(64kg). Now that’s a big baby.

Chickens can dream.

Chickens can dream

They do not aspire to great things, but chickens experience REM sleep. This means that your chicken has dreams.

These are some of the most mind-blowing facts, hope they caught you by surprise too because I was today years old when knew even chickens should dream. This was only the tip of the iceberg of, most mind-blowing facts are in store for you. Keep checking in for more amazing facts that will blow your mind.

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FAQs

When did the golden rat species go extinct and when was it rediscovered?

Yes, a rare golden rat species was rediscovered in South Africa in 2021, previously thought to be extinct for 80 years. Interestingly, this species has unique adaptations allowing it to thrive in specific environmental conditions.

Why do cows have rights in India?

Cows are considered to be sacred in India, where they are believed to be the reincarnation of Goddess Laxmi. They issued a bill that prohibits the slaughter of cows and calves, showcasing a unique legal stance on animal rights. Additionally, India has implemented initiatives to provide shelter and welfare for these sacred animals.

Is it accurate that the male brain is larger than the female brain, and does size impact efficiency in brain function?

Yes, on average, the male brain is 10%-15% larger than the female brain. However, it’s important to note that female brains have demonstrated greater efficiency in certain tasks. Recent research suggests that brain size alone does not determine cognitive abilities.

Can cannabis cure cancer?

Cannabis extract THC has shown efficacy in alleviating cancer symptoms such as nausea, increased appetite, and anxiety, and acting as a painkiller. It is not a cure, but it can aid in symptom management. 

Can cucumbers dissolve kidney stones?

Yes, cucumbers can act as solvents for calcium oxalate kidney stones, helping to dissolve them. Beyond this, cucumbers also contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall kidney health.

Is the belief that humans only use 10% of their brains a myth, and when do we use 100% of our brains?

Contrary to popular belief, we use 100% of our brains, even during activities like sleep. The 10% myth is debunked, raising questions about the extraordinary capabilities of the brain. Interestingly, specific brain regions may exhibit heightened activity during particular tasks, showcasing the complexity of neural processes.

How many bananas can kill me?

Human lungs, with approximately 300 million alveoli, can cover about 100 square meters, roughly equivalent to the size of a tennis court. Remarkably, the intricate structure of the lungs not only facilitates efficient gas exchange but also resembles a complex network of tiny air sacs.

Can consuming too many bananas lead to death?

Yes, excessive banana consumption could result in elevated potassium levels and bananas have also proved to be radioactive. However, the amount of bananas you would have to consume is ridiculous. So, don’t worry and have your daily dose of banana.

Unveiling the Root Causes of Headaches: Why do headaches occur?

A headache is a painful, uncomfortable sensation mainly in the head, face, and upper neck regions. Headache is linked to the brain and the nerves (i.e. the nervous system). It is the most common illness that most people experience not only once but several times in their lifetime. A headache is when your head hurts from the inside. Hitting your head with something and causing pain is not the root cause of headaches (i.e., a headache is not a result of physical trauma).

A study says that more than half of the world’s population are victims of around 150 types of headaches. While most headaches aren’t dangerous, certain types can indicate a more serious condition like migraine or problems with blood vessels in the brain.

Avoiding Pain is possible only when you understand the cause behind it. So let’s find the cause of your headache and the home-made solutions to it.

The most common causes of headaches:

Nervous system disorders can be a root cause of headaches. As we know the nervous system is linked to different parts of the body through the nerves thus problems in any organ of the body may often lead to headaches. Organs like eyes, mouth(teeth), etc. are more deeply linked to the brain so any injuries in these organs directly lead to headaches.

Some of the most common causes of headaches are explained below :

  • Stress: The headaches caused due to stress are usually called tension headaches which are the most common type of headaches. The neck and scalp muscles contract due to stress, tension, anxiety, or depression resulting in headaches. It may occur at any age but it is more common in adults and older teens. 
  • Lack of sleep: Our brain gets time to repair itself while we sleep. Lack of sleep results in altered blood flow in the brain, hormonal imbalance, increased stress, and reduced pain thresholding capacity potentially contributing to headaches. 

    lack of sleep
    lack of sleep
  • High screen time: In this digital world where almost all of the necessary aspects of our lives from learning to earning have gone digital, many people are seen to be victims of eye and eye-related illness. Since A lot of nerves connect the eyes and the brain a disorder in the eyes directly causes pain in the brain ultimately causing headaches. Moreover, high screen time exposure results in bad posture, more exposure to blue lights, overstimulation of the brain, and dry eyes which decrease our attention and our capacity to focus on something. 

    High usage of mobile
    High Screen Time
  • Smoke and Smell: Smoke and bad smells are unhealthy in themselves. Smoke and bad smell constrict blood vessels in the brain and also cause changes in the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that can lead to headaches. Headaches due to smoke and smell are common but yet occur the persons who possess allergies to smoke and bad smells.
  • Unhealthy Eating habits: Eating a balanced diet regularly in a routine manner can result in many health benefits. In the same way, bad eating habits such as eating junk foods or an imbalanced diet, eating spicy foods eating too little or too much can also result in several health problems consequently leading to headaches, Moreover, unhealthy eating habits also include nicotine consumption, alcohol consumption, caffeine consumption etc which are highly responsible for headaches.
  • Very Bright or dim light: Very bright light like sunlight, flashlights of vehicles, etc causes our eye muscles to contract, similarly, very dim light causes our eye muscles to expand consequently causing headaches.

Other Cause: Headaches may also occur as a result of some serious illnesses like brain tumors, meningitis, strokes, traumatic brain injury, etc. In such situations, visiting a doctor for a health check-up is highly recommended.

Headache remedies:

  1. Avoid getting stressed. Yes, I know getting stressed is not a matter of choice, it is the situation that makes us stressed but yet you can stop overthinking and be involved in mind-relaxing activities to avoid stress. You can also use stress balls.
  2. Take 7-9 hours of sound sleep every day. This increases focus, attention, and productivity and keeps your body healthy.  

    8 hours of Sound Sleep
    8 hours of Sound Sleep
  3. While using a mobile phone use the 20-20-20 rule, which suggests that for every 20 minutes of screen time, you should take a 20-second break and focus on something at least 20 feet away. Similarly, use blue filters and regularly moisten your eyes while on screen.
  4. Avoid allergic smells and smoke and remember to wear a mask when going to such places.
  5. Maintain healthy eating habits, and eat fresh, unpacked food like green leafy vegetables. Also, avoid eating junk foods.
  6. Avoid staying in a very bright or dim light for a long period.   

Note: If you are facing a chronic headache(i.e. 15 or more headache episodes per month for at least three months), you are highly recommended to visit a nearby doctor.

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FAQs:

1. Why am I getting headaches every day all of a sudden?

Headaches may occur every day as a result of stress, bad eating habits, high screen time, or lack of sound sleep. Every day headaches may also occur as a symptom of some serious illness such as meningitis brain injury etc.

2. What is Chronic headache?

If a headache occurs 15 or more times a month for three months then it is termed a Chronic headache. It usually indicates a serious illness like a lack of blood flow in the brain, meningitis, or some brain injury.

3. When to worry about a headache?

You should worry about a headache from its early stage but most of the headaches result from some common problem that can be treated by home remedies. Thus, one should worry about a headache when it’s chronic and results in severe pain.

4. What are some common headache home remedies?

Some common headache home remedies include maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, having a sound sleep of at least 7-9 hours, maintaining healthy eating habits, reducing screen time, doing head messages, etc.