› added 1 month ago

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TIL that Neanderthals in Paleolithic Europe may have used Manganese Oxide powder as a fuel additive to add spark and heat to kindling for fires in the cold, subarctic climate of Central Europe. Manganese reduces the temperature needed to start a fire by 80-180 degrees Celsius.

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via reddit.com

BGnW TIL that the Great Pyramid of Giza used to be a pearly white because of its limestone covering.
5xKp TIL that the word “scientist” did not exist until 1833; before that time they were called “natural philosophers.”
eJ96 TIL there is a reason for peeling stripes on a cucumber besides making it look fancy. The skin is slightly bitter and can overwhelm the mellow flesh part. Removing a portion of it reduces the bitterness without taking away all the flavor and nutrients.
KYJxR TIL that the Electriquette was an electric wicker vehicle available for rent at the 1915 Panama–California Exposition.
w0yY TIL Disney execs were at first confused by Depp’s portrayal of Jack Sparrow. The CEO Michael Eisner stated “He’s ruining the film!” Depp’s response was “Look, these are the choices I made. You know my work. So either trust me or give me the boot.” His performance went on to be universally praised.