Understand what everyone learns today and what resonates widely with people on r/todayilearned.
Posts with more than 1k upvotes
A compelling Reddit post reveals the tragic story of Isidor and Ida Strauss, co-owners of Macy's, who perished in the Titanic disaster. Ida famously refused to board a lifeboat, insisting on staying with her husband as the ship sank. Their love story has resonated with many, sparking discussions about self-sacrifice and devotion. Commenters shared personal anecdotes and historical insights, including how Ida's fur coats were transformed into teddy bears for her descendants. This narrative not only highlights their enduring love but also connects to broader themes of human connection during crises.
A recent Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing the phenomenon of 'mouth puffing,' where patients continue to attempt mouth breathing during sleep even after their mouths have been taped shut. This intriguing topic sparked a lively discussion among users, with many sharing personal experiences and insights about mouth taping as a method to improve sleep quality. Commenters debated the effectiveness of this practice, with some praising its benefits while others expressed skepticism. The post highlights the growing interest in sleep health and unconventional methods to enhance breathing during rest.
A Reddit post reveals that Michael Bay was once considered to direct the film 'Phone Booth' but was removed from consideration after questioning how to get the protagonist out of the booth. This humorous anecdote sparked a flurry of creative and satirical comments from users, who imagined how a Michael Bay version of the film would unfold, complete with explosions, dramatic camera angles, and over-the-top action sequences. The post, which received over 31,000 upvotes, highlights the community's playful engagement with the idea of Bay's signature filmmaking style, showcasing their wit and creativity in reimagining a simple premise into an action-packed spectacle.
A fascinating Reddit post reveals that an 870-person-capacity jail boat was moored off Riker's Island in New York City, still in use as recently as last year. This revelation sparked a wave of nostalgia and personal stories among commenters, particularly one user who shared heartfelt memories of visiting the park across from the barge with their father. The post also prompted discussions about the history of prison ships in NYC, including the Bibby Resolution and Bibby Venture, which were previously British troop carriers repurposed for incarceration. The blend of personal anecdotes and historical context captivated the Reddit community.
A fascinating Reddit post reveals that sheep and goats can mate to produce a rare hybrid known as a 'geep.' This unusual pairing occurs despite the genetic differences between the two species, with sheep having 54 chromosomes and goats 60. While hybrids are possible, they are often stillborn, making them extremely rare. The post sparked a lively discussion among users, who shared jokes and insights about the hybrid, highlighting the complexities of animal genetics and the quirks of language surrounding these unique creatures.
A Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing the tumultuous relationship between Marlon Brando and director Frank Oz during the filming of 'The Score.' Tensions escalated to the point where Brando refused to be on set if Oz was present, leading co-star Robert De Niro to step in as a makeshift director. The post, which has garnered over 3,500 upvotes, sparked a lively discussion among users, with many sharing anecdotes about Brando's notorious behavior and his reputation as a difficult actor. Commenters reflected on Brando's complex personality, blending admiration for his talent with criticism of his often abrasive demeanor.
A fascinating Reddit post reveals that the Richmond Bridge in London was financed through a tontine, a unique investment scheme where the tolls collected from bridge crossings were shared among investors. As each investor passed away, the remaining investors received a larger share until the last survivor's death, at which point the bridge became free to cross. This historical financing method sparked lively discussions among users, with many referencing popular culture and personal anecdotes related to tontines, showcasing the blend of history and modern commentary that captivates Reddit audiences.
A Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing that Nintendo acquired the rights to two pornographic parodies of the Super Mario series from 1993 to prevent their distribution. This surprising move has sparked a lively discussion among users, with many sharing humorous comments and speculating on the implications of such parodies. The post, which received over 1,800 upvotes, highlights the intersection of pop culture and adult entertainment, as well as the lengths to which companies will go to protect their intellectual property. The conversation also touches on the rarity of such parodies and the potential for more in the future.
A recent Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing that the misuse of apostrophes in plural nouns, such as 'burger's', is known as a greengrocer's apostrophe. This post, which has over 1,500 upvotes, sparked a lively discussion among users about common grammatical errors and the evolution of language. Commenters shared their frustrations with various misuses of grammar, including the incorrect application of pronouns and possessive forms. The conversation highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining grammatical standards in an evolving linguistic landscape.
A recent TIL post highlights the extraordinary achievements of Michael Kearney, who became the youngest university graduate at just 10 years old after completing his Bachelor's degree in anthropology in two years. The post, which received over 31,000 upvotes, sparked discussions about the pressures faced by child prodigies and the implications of accelerated education. Commenters shared personal anecdotes and debated the balance between academic excellence and a normal childhood, questioning whether such early achievements lead to fulfillment or burnout in later life. Kearney's journey raises important questions about the expectations placed on gifted children and their long-term well-being.
A popular Reddit post reveals that jazz singer Norah Jones is the daughter of renowned Indian sitarist Ravi Shankar, known for his collaboration with George Harrison. The post highlights that both Norah and her half-sister Anoushka were Grammy nominees in 2003, with Norah winning five awards. The discussion sparked by this revelation includes comments on Norah's musical talent, her acclaimed album 'Come Away With Me,' and the impact of her father's legacy. Users also debated her classification as a jazz artist versus pop, showcasing the diverse opinions on her musical style.
A fascinating post reveals that Charles Foussard holds the record for the longest time spent in custody, totaling 70 years and 303 days in Ararat, Victoria, Australia, from 1903 to 1974. Convicted for killing an elderly man and stealing his boots, Foussard died while still incarcerated. The post, which has garnered significant attention, sparked discussions about the psychological impact of such lengthy imprisonment, with commenters reflecting on how drastically society and technology would have changed during his incarceration. This story highlights the complexities of justice and the human experience within the penal system.
A recent Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing that North Korea has made multiple attempts to dig tunnels under the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) for potential surprise attacks on South Korea. So far, four tunnels have been discovered, with more suspected to exist. Interestingly, three of these tunnels have been repurposed as tourist attractions by the South Korean government, sparking discussions among visitors about the absurdity of turning a failed military strategy into a tourist experience. The post has ignited a lively conversation about the historical context and implications of these tunnels, showcasing the complex relationship between the two Koreas.
A recent Reddit post highlights how Alfred Hitchcock's insistence on set start times for his film 'Psycho' revolutionized movie viewing practices. Before this, audiences often wandered into theaters at any point during a film, leading to a fragmented viewing experience. The post sparked a lively discussion among users, who shared their memories of the cinema culture of the 1950s, where double features and flexible viewing times were common. This shift towards scheduled start times has since become the norm, emphasizing the importance of maintaining narrative integrity in film.
A recent Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing a unique Canadian tradition known as a 'stag and doe party.' This event allows engaged couples to charge an admission fee to help fund their wedding expenses. The post, which received over 1,198 upvotes, sparked a lively discussion among users, many of whom shared their experiences and regional variations of the tradition. While some were unfamiliar with the concept, others noted its popularity in areas like Manitoba, where it is often referred to as a 'wedding social.' The conversation highlighted the cultural significance and community spirit surrounding these fundraising events.
A recent Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing that a zeptosecond is a trillionth of a billionth of a second, marking it as the smallest unit of time ever measured. This fascinating discovery stems from experiments measuring the absorption of photons by hydrogen molecules, with the shortest recorded time being 247 zeptoseconds. The post sparked lively discussions among users, blending humor with scientific explanations, and highlighted the complexities of time measurement in quantum physics, including comparisons to Planck time, the smallest time interval we can currently describe.
A fascinating Reddit post reveals the existence of Stendhal syndrome, a rare psychiatric disorder that causes individuals to faint, cry, or hallucinate when overwhelmed by the beauty of art. This phenomenon is most commonly reported among tourists in culturally rich cities like Florence, Paris, Tokyo, and Rome. The post has sparked a lively discussion, with users sharing personal experiences of being emotionally moved by art and architecture, highlighting the profound impact that beauty can have on human emotions. The conversation underscores the deep connections people form with art, transcending cultural and personal boundaries.
A recent Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing that blood and plasma donations can help reduce levels of PFAS, commonly known as 'forever chemicals,' in the bloodstream. This post, which has garnered over 5,200 upvotes, sparked a lively discussion among users, with many sharing humorous and insightful comments about bloodletting and its historical context. Some users noted that menstruating women tend to have lower PFAS levels, leading to further debate about the implications of this finding. The conversation reflects a growing awareness of the health impacts of PFAS and the potential benefits of blood donation.
A fascinating Reddit post reveals the existence of two unrelated minor league baseball players named Brady Feigl, both sharing striking physical similarities, including height, red hair, and thick glasses. The coincidence of their names and features led to a humorous mix-up during their Tommy John surgeries in 2015, where they were mistaken for each other by medical staff. This quirky story has captivated Reddit users, sparking a lively discussion about the oddities of shared names and the amusing situations that arise from such coincidences, showcasing the community's love for unique and entertaining anecdotes.
A fascinating Reddit post reveals a daring scientific expedition where a scientist was lowered from a helicopter to explore an undiscovered island, only to be swatted at by a polar bear. This unexpected encounter, which garnered over 3,700 upvotes, sparked a lively discussion among users, with many sharing humorous comments and references to pop culture. The post highlights the unpredictability of wildlife interactions and the adventurous spirit of scientific exploration, while also showcasing the community's ability to engage with such extraordinary stories in a lighthearted manner.
A recent TIL post reveals that J.R.R. Tolkien initially attempted to revise the tone of 'The Hobbit' to align with the more serious 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy. However, he abandoned the effort after just three chapters, feeling that the playful essence of 'The Hobbit' was lost. This revelation has sparked discussions among fans about the tonal inconsistencies in the film adaptations, particularly how they diverge from the whimsical nature of the original book. Many commenters expressed their desire for a more faithful cinematic representation, suggesting fan edits that could better capture the spirit of Tolkien's work.
A recent Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing that unlike dogs, wolves, jackals, and coyotes, foxes cannot interbreed with other canids. This intriguing fact, which has garnered over 1,500 upvotes, sparked a lively discussion among users about the genetic differences between these animals, particularly focusing on chromosome counts. Commenters shared humorous takes and personal anecdotes, while others delved into the scientific implications of interbreeding and the unique traits that distinguish foxes from their canid relatives. The post highlights the community's fascination with animal biology and genetics.
A fascinating TIL post recounts a quirky promotional stunt by Burma-Shave in 1958, which offered a 'free trip to Mars' for sending in 900 empty jars. Grocery store manager Arliss French took the challenge seriously and collected the jars, leading to a humorous twist when Burma-Shave sent him, dressed as an astronaut, to Moers, Germany, mistakenly believed to be pronounced like Mars. This lighthearted story has sparked discussions about marketing absurdities and the lengths people will go to fulfill seemingly impossible challenges, resonating with many Reddit users.
A fascinating Reddit post reveals that the earliest known reference to the 'Mile High Club' dates back to 1785, shortly after the first successful balloon ascent. The reference comes from a betting book where a wager was placed on a nobleman engaging in sexual activity in a balloon at a height of one thousand yards. This historical tidbit sparked humorous discussions among users, reflecting on human nature's tendency to intertwine new technologies with sex and the absurdity of aristocratic bets. The post highlights the enduring curiosity and humor surrounding human behavior in the context of aviation.
A Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing the existence of tiny ear crystals that can become dislodged, leading to a condition known as Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo (BPPV). This condition can cause severe vertigo, as shared by numerous commenters recounting their harrowing experiences. Many described episodes that left them feeling as if they were spinning uncontrollably, often resulting in panic and nausea. The discussion also highlighted effective remedies, such as the Epley Maneuver, which has provided relief for many sufferers. The post has sparked a broader conversation about the challenges of living with BPPV and the importance of understanding this often-misunderstood condition.
A fascinating Reddit post reveals the existence of a polar bear jail in northern Manitoba, Canada, where polar bears are kept in isolation until they can be safely relocated. This unique facility aims to protect both the bears and the residents of Churchill, a town known for its polar bear encounters. The post, which received over 1,000 upvotes, sparked lively discussions among users, with comments highlighting local practices such as leaving car doors unlocked for quick escapes from polar bears. The conversation also touched on the community's relationship with these majestic creatures, showcasing the blend of wildlife management and local culture.
A recent TIL post reveals that Pascha, the largest brothel in Europe, operates with over 120 workers and serves around 1,000 customers daily. Each worker rents a room for 180 Euros per day, with themed floors catering to different clientele, including a section for cheaper services and another for transgender individuals. The establishment has garnered attention not only for its size but also for its controversial operations, including allegations of involvement in illegal immigration and money laundering. Despite these issues, the brothel remains open, highlighting the complexities of the sex work industry in Europe.
A popular Reddit post reveals the origins of the Philly cheesesteak, credited to brothers Pat and Harry Olivieri in the early 1930s. Initially a personal snack, the sandwich gained popularity after being shared with a cab driver who encouraged the brothers to sell it. The post, which received over 2,400 upvotes, sparked lively discussions among users about their favorite cheesesteak spots in Philadelphia, with many sharing personal anecdotes and recommendations. The conversation highlighted the ongoing debate over the best cheesesteak in the city, showcasing the deep cultural significance of this iconic sandwich.
A Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing the notorious story of Ken McElroy, an American criminal known as 'the town bully' in Skidmore, Missouri. His violent history, including attempted murder and threats against locals, culminated in his unsolved killing in broad daylight, witnessed by many who claimed not to see the shooter. The post sparked discussions about vigilante justice, the failures of the legal system, and the community's relief at his demise. McElroy's life and death have drawn comparisons to the character Brad Wesley from the film 'Road House', highlighting the dark legacy he left behind.
A recent post on Reddit reveals that the Gorillaz made history as the first artist to chart in the UK Top 40 primarily through digital downloads. This milestone occurred when the singles chart expanded to include legal downloads from various platforms, significantly increasing the total units sold. The post, which received over 1,150 upvotes, sparked lively discussions among users, touching on topics such as the impact of digital music sales and humorous commentary on the nature of music charts. The conversation reflects the evolving landscape of music consumption in the digital age.
A recent Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing that Social Security Numbers (SSNs) issued before 2011 can indicate the state of residence at the time of issuance, as the first three digits correspond to specific states. This post, which has garnered over 17,000 upvotes, sparked a lively discussion among users about the implications of this system, especially since the method was discontinued in 2011. Commenters shared personal anecdotes and insights about the evolution of SSNs, including how they were used in various contexts, such as student identification, and the potential need for a new identification system as the current one approaches saturation.
A fascinating post reveals that during World War II, U.S. Navy sailors concocted a drink known as 'torpedo juice,' made from 180-proof grain alcohol fuel and pineapple juice. Despite the Navy's efforts to make the alcohol undrinkable, sailors found ways to enjoy this potent mix, which was still 72 proof after dilution. The post, which received nearly 3,000 upvotes, sparked lively discussions among Reddit users, with many sharing humorous anecdotes and insights about naval life and drinking culture, highlighting the camaraderie and resilience of sailors during wartime.
A recent Reddit post highlights a fascinating study revealing that women who have their last child after the age of 33 are significantly more likely to live to 95 or older, with those giving birth after 40 being four times more likely to reach 100. This post, which received over 32,000 upvotes, sparked a lively discussion among users about the potential correlations between later childbirth, health, and longevity. Commenters debated whether the findings indicate causation or merely correlation, with many suggesting that factors such as education, income, and overall health play crucial roles in both longevity and the decision to have children later in life.
A Reddit post highlights a shocking incident from 2012 where a California high school student was forced to urinate in a bucket after a teacher misinterpreted a bathroom policy. This led to a lawsuit, resulting in a $1.25 million settlement for the student in 2017. The case sparked widespread discussion about the absurdity of strict school policies and the treatment of students. Commenters shared their disbelief and personal experiences, emphasizing the need for common sense in educational environments and the potential consequences of such extreme measures.
A shocking post on Reddit reveals the tragic death of a man who was killed by a beaver while attempting to photograph it. The incident occurred when the man, fishing with friends, approached the beaver, which bit him on the thigh, severing an artery. Despite his friends' efforts to stop the bleeding, the man succumbed to his injuries. This post, which has garnered significant attention, sparked discussions about the dangers of approaching wild animals and the surprising strength of beavers, often underestimated due to their cute appearance.
A Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing the unusual story of Hitoshi Imamura, a Japanese war criminal who, believing his 10-year prison sentence was too lenient, constructed a replica prison in his garden where he lived until his death in 1968. The post, which has garnered over 50,000 upvotes, sparked a heated discussion about the complexities of war crimes, with commenters sharing insights on Imamura's actions during World War II, including the infamous 'pig-basket atrocity.' The conversation delved into themes of guilt, responsibility, and the moral implications of leadership during wartime.
A fascinating Reddit post reveals that Coca-Cola was exempt from sugar rations during World War II by promising service members a bottle for just five cents. This marketing strategy not only provided soldiers with a refreshing drink but also led to the establishment of bottling facilities on military bases, allowing for the production of 16 billion Cokes throughout the war. The post has sparked discussions about the role of comfort foods in wartime and the innovative ways companies supported troops, highlighting the intersection of commerce and military morale.
A Reddit post reveals the remarkable story of artist Margaret Keane, who endured over a decade of having her artwork plagiarized by her husband. After winning a court case against him, Keane not only reclaimed her identity but also experienced a significant transformation in her artistic style, shifting from somber themes to a more vibrant and joyful expression. This post, which has garnered over 1,300 upvotes, has sparked discussions about the impact of personal struggles on creativity and the importance of recognizing and celebrating artists' true contributions.
A fascinating post reveals a quirky anecdote about the late Welsh poet Dylan Thomas. After his death, his widow had his body transported from New York to Wales. During the journey, she discovered sailors using his coffin as a card table. Rather than expressing dismay, she chose to remain silent, believing her husband would have found the situation amusing. This story resonated with many, sparking discussions about humor in death and how loved ones might appreciate lightheartedness in their final moments, reflecting a unique perspective on mourning.
A Reddit post that gained significant traction reveals a humorous exchange involving a lawyer's complaint about Cleveland Browns fans throwing paper airplanes during games. The lawyer's response included a letter from 1974, humorously addressing the complaint and suggesting that someone was misusing his name for silly letters. This lighthearted incident sparked a lively discussion among users, reflecting on the loyalty of Browns fans and the quirks of legal language. The post highlights the camaraderie and humor found within the sports community, especially among dedicated fans.
A popular Reddit post reveals that medieval peasants typically enjoyed significant time off, ranging from eight weeks to half a year, as the Church believed that regular holidays were essential to prevent revolts among the working class. This post, which received over 14,500 upvotes, sparked a lively discussion about the realities of peasant life, including the misconception that time off equated to leisure. Many commenters highlighted that while peasants had time away from feudal obligations, they still faced demanding daily chores and responsibilities that required considerable effort and time, challenging modern perceptions of their lifestyle.
A Reddit post reveals that in 1949, a gas station owner in New Jersey pioneered the first self-serve gas station, facing fierce opposition from rival stations. These competitors resorted to intimidation tactics, including a drive-by shooting, but ultimately succeeded in getting a law passed that still prohibits self-service gas stations in the state. This historical anecdote has sparked discussions about the implications of such legislation on competition and consumer choice, with many users sharing their experiences and frustrations regarding the outdated law.
A recent Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing that The Beatles were not legally dissolved until 1974, when John Lennon signed the final contract during a vacation at Disney World. This surprising fact sparked lively discussions among users, with many sharing anecdotes and speculating about the circumstances surrounding the signing. Commenters delved into Lennon's personal life at the time, including his relationship with May Pang and the dynamics within the band. The post highlights the enduring fascination with The Beatles and their legacy, as well as the intricate details of their history that continue to captivate fans.
A popular Reddit post reveals that Mel Blanc's gravestone features the iconic phrase "That's All Folks!"—a signature line from the beloved character Porky Pig, whom Blanc famously voiced. Known as "The Man of 1,000 Voices," Blanc lent his talents to numerous characters, including Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck. The post, which received nearly 2,000 upvotes, sparked discussions about Blanc's remarkable career and contributions to animation, with users sharing anecdotes and insights about his unique voice acting skills and the impact he had on the industry.
A fascinating TIL post recounts the story of Emerich Juettner, a senior citizen who eluded the US Secret Service for a decade by using poorly made counterfeit $1 bills, one of which even misspelled 'Washington.' Known as Mister 880, Juettner managed to live off his scheme until he was caught in 1948 after a group of children discovered his counterfeit bills and printing plates in a vacant lot. The tale highlights not only Juettner's cleverness but also the lengths to which he went to support himself and his dog, sparking discussions about the nature of crime and survival.
A recent Reddit post highlights British Airways' 'Flying with Confidence' course, designed to help individuals overcome their fear of flying, boasting a remarkable 98% success rate. The post, which received over 2,600 upvotes, sparked a lively discussion among users sharing their personal experiences and fears related to flying. Many commenters debated the definition of success in the course, with some expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of merely boarding a plane. The conversation delved into various coping mechanisms, including medication and psychological strategies, revealing the complexities of addressing flight anxiety.
A recent Reddit post has gained significant attention, revealing a study that found the average age of death for tattooed individuals is 39 years, compared to 53 years for those without tattoos. This startling statistic has sparked a lively debate among users, with many questioning the study's methodology and the implications of its findings. Commenters discussed factors such as the demographics of tattooed individuals, the nature of autopsies, and the potential correlation between tattoos and risk-taking behavior. The conversation highlights the complexities surrounding societal perceptions of tattoos and their potential associations with mortality.