› added 1 year ago

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TIL of the Testament of Peter the Great, a fabricated document alleged to reflect Russian plans for world domination throughout the 18th and 19th centuries

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jYN TIL that when the Spanish asked the Mayans what their land was named, they replied “Yucatán” which literally translates to “I don’t understand you.”
epkoJ TIL fine particles of dust can explode and rapidly combust, even innocuous objects like flour or corn starch, due to the very large surface area of dust relative to its mass. One incident at a "color party" throwing colored corn starch resulted in 15 dead and 498 suffering from burns.
wv7E TIL Although Mercury is closest to the sun, it is not the hottest planet in our solar system. Venus is hotter due its atmosphere trapping the heat.
Z8rOa TIL about the 'mystery soda machine" in Seattle, in operation from the early 90s to 2018. For 75 cents one could purchase a random can. Products included those that were discontinued decades ago or not available in the US. It's unknown who stocked the machine.
90nM TIL: To be ADA compliant, elevator manufactures in the US must place a raised 5 pointed star next to the button that brings you to the main exit. ‘L’ can mean lounge or lobby. 'G’ could be ground floor or garage. But, the one with the star next to it will always take you to the main exit.