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TIL the first Ariane 5 launch failed because software engineers left redundant code from the previous version of the rocket. A 64-bit FP variable was made as an input to a 16 bit integer, resulting in an integer overflow that crashed the rocket's launch computer.

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yQNpX TIL that after inviting John Ratcliffe (villain figure in Pocahontas) for a friendly gathering, the Powhatan Indians instead tied him to a stake, removed pieces of skin from his entire body with mussel shells and tossed them into the fire as he watched.
PYWVL TIL that the Godfather II (1974) was the first movie sequel in history to win the academy award for best picture. Only 2 other sequels have ever won the award: The Silence of the Lambs (1991) and LOTR: Return of the King (2003).
ENpp TIL that the King family does not believe James Earl Ray was responsible for the assassination of MLK, and that King’s wife won a civil suit that implied government involvement.
Lk1em TIL Syd Barrett (founding member of Pink Floyd) visited the band in 1975 (years after his departure) unannounced, while they were recording "Wish You Were Here," a song for Barrett. Barrett's appearance had changed so much that most of the band did not recognize him initially.
loeyK TIL Earlier, doctors used to tap the patient's chest to get clues about their medical condition. One 'gentleman' French doctor, reluctant to embarrass a young girl, rolled up a sheet of paper to make a tube and placed it on her chest. It worked, and as a result, the stethoscope was invented.