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TIL: The explosion of Mt Tambora in 1815 was so devastating that it eliminated an entire kingdom, along with its unique language. Remnants were found buried under a 3m thick layer of volcanic matter in the middle of a jungle.

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ADpNd TIL that an Austrian Diplomat writing an antisemitic book about the evilness of Jews came to a different conclusion before it was published, declaring that "antisemitism amounted to nothing more credible than fanatical religious hatred"
PYPMg TIL exactly 45 years ago (12/06/73), Nixon used his power under the 25th Amendment to appoint Ford as his new vice president the United States. To date, Ford remains the only person to assume the roles of both President and Vice President without having been elected by the electoral college.
Lka0 TIL that in March 2012, a U.S. soldier (SPC Dennis Weichel) saved an Afghani boy by jumping in front of a moving truck to push the boy out of the way. He was struck by the truck instead and died of his injuries.
e0GR5 TIL For the beach run scene in Chariots of Fire, the director originally wanted to use Vangelis' “L’Enfant” and filmed it with the piece blasting live. Vangelis said he could write a better theme and the now iconic running theme was born. He said “My father is a runner, and this is an anthem to him”
xBPw TIL Congressman James Traficant was indicted for allegedly taking more than a $100K in bribes during his campaign for county sheriff. At trial, Traficant claimed that he was simply trying to infiltrate the Mafia. “I got inside of the Mob,” he insisted, adding, “I fucked the Mob.” He was acquitted.