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TIL that in 1969, Richard Nixon had the White House Secret Service Uniformed Division's uniforms redesigned for formal occasions. The white with gold trim uniforms were widely criticized, and subsequently pulled from service. Many eventually wound up as Meriden-Cleghorn High School Band uniforms

Read more nixonlibrary.gov

via reddit.com

JYJLl TIL of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, with only two citizens, it has been described as the smallest sovereign state in the world. It has Observer Status at the UN and has its own currency, passports, and postage stamps. It claims continuity from a crusader order over 900 years old.
Breky TIL that the Hijra (transgender) community in India and Pakistan use a secret language called Hijra Farsi, which originated more than 200 years ago due to government persecution. The language is introduced to newcomers when they enter the community, together with the group’s other traditions
p8v9O TIL of irukandji syndrome. Caused by irukandji jellyfish venom, it has an unusual symptom where the victim has a feeling of "impending doom." The victim is so sure they are going to die, that they ask the doctors to kill them.
M7gR7 TIL that former NHL player Gordie Howe had one of the longest careers ever in the 4 major North American Sports. Playing from age 18-51 from 1946-1980 32 seasons. For reference, if Wayne Gretzky played that long, he would’ve retired in 2012.
nnD7 TIL due to its pagan origin, the Christmas festival was banned in Massachusetts between 1659 and 1681 by the Puritans as an illegal observance.