› added 1 year ago

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TIL that the Brihadeshwara (Big) Temple, Thanjavur, India, has survived, perfectly intact, 1000 years of aging, six earthquakes, many monsoons and at least one big fire even though built without using any binding material.

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via reddit.com

WkaR4 TIL that in 1935, a Congressman proposed an amendment that any declaration of war would need a national referendum. He said that "If the United States had such an anti-war provision in its Constitution, other countries would follow our example, and I believe wars would be brought to an end"
4kaYb TIL of the 5th century BCE Long Walls of Athens, 6km long fortifications securing the city’s connection to the sea
oBa7 TIL that “no one has actually ever found a real pirate’s buried treasure map.”
KxvJ TIL since sound can travel through water better than it can air, the potential number of decibels is greatly increased. LFA Sonar used by ships and submarines is the loudest man made noise, reaching 200+ decibels. Marine biologists believe that sea creatures may beach themselves to escape the noise.
BAZx TIL Nicolas Cage had magic mushrooms with his cat, Lewis. Seeing Lewis eating the shrooms, Cage responded, “What the heck, I better do it with him.” Cage recalls laying in bed for hours and staring at Lewis, as Lewis stared back. Cage concluded, “and I had no doubt that he was my brother.”