› added 5 years ago

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TIL that many Chinese soldiers that came into contact with protestors at Tiananmen Square refused to open fire on civilians. One official even refused to obey orders by pretending he didn't receive any messages. There was even infighting between the various units over violence against civilians.

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QNGXX TIL schools have used infant simulator dolls which are designed to behave like real babies by crying, burping, and requiring 'feeding' and diapering, to try to deter teen pregnancy. A 2016 study found that teen girls in schools that used the dolls were about 36% more likely to get pregnant by age 20
E1ymx TIL for decades, the only "premature wards" in the US were carnival attractions at Coney Island and World's Fairs. From the 1890s-1930s, the "Incubator Exhibits" saved thousands of babies' lives, at no charge to the parents. All costs were paid by entrance fees.
grYV7 TIL of triathlete Lesley Paterson, who dedicated her race winnings to maintaining the film rights to one of her favorite books. She almost lost them in 2015 until competing and winning with a broken shoulder. It took 16 years and $200k, but she eventually made All Quiet on the Western Front (2022).
R7ova TIL that Hugh Hefner did not own the Playboy Mansion. It was owned by Playboy Enterprises and Hefner had to pay rent for his accommodation and for meals. In 2004 his rent was $1.3 million.
1awwP TIL that a pilot was sucked out of the cockpit of a passenger jet. A crew member held on to his body until landing, at which point they discovered he had survived.