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TIL that in 1862 Lincoln rejected an offer for a battalion of elephants from the King of Siam (present day Thailand). The elephants would have been a follow up to a set of "royal gifts" which included a sword "of costly materials" already sent to the president. Talk about a white elephant!

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4dyR TIL there was a study published conclusively linking the return of veterans and an increase of domestic terrorism from white supremacy groups. It has since been pulled due to pressure from FOX News, the American Legion and other conservative groups.
BgvwK TIL that after medieval king of Scotland Robert the Bruce wandered away from his army he was charged at by an English knight. Instead of retreating Bruce charged and killed the Englishmen by smashing his head with an axe.
Wp7Y TIL you can use food stamps (SNAP benefits) to purchase seeds/plants that will produce food for the household.
nZwd TIL, the Civil War prison camp Elmira had two observation towers constructed for onlookers. Citizens paid 15 cents to look at the inmates. Concession stands by the towers sold peanuts, cakes, and lemonade while the men inside starved
nARB TIL Alexander the Great, upon being refused a prophecy from the Oracle at Delphi about his ambition to conquer the world, dragged her out of her adyton by her hair until she exclaimed, “You are invincible, my son!” He then dropped her and left, stating, “Now I have my answer.”