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TIL That a "census-designated place" called "Rough and Ready" (named after Zachary Taylor) in Nevada County, California declared secession from the United States in 1850 (During the California Gold Rush) to avoid mining taxes. It voted to rejoin the union 3 months later on July 4th.

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OG7ng TIL Saudi Arabia does not have a single flowing river on its land.
Z8xR4 TIL of Brian Spencer, a former NHL hockey player who's father, upon hearing his son was starting in his first game, held a Canadian TV station hostage and forced them to broadcast it, before being shot and killed. After his career, Brian too was shot & killed during a robbery after buying crack.
78L4L TIL that an estimated 100,000 people disappear annually in Japan due to Jōhatsu - vanishing overnight without a trace. It's usually due to depression, debt, addiction or the notoriously harsh work culture. There are even online companies and published guides to help one relocate their life.
GeXG TIL that the BTK serial killer had a job installing security systems. Many of his clients booked the company to stop BTK from entering their homes, unaware that BTK himself was installing them.
xV0og TIL of Vittorio Emanuele, son of the last King of Italy. He was banned from entering Italy until 2002 when he renounced all claim to the throne. Controversially he has also been tried on charges of murder, criminal association, racketeering, conspiracy, corruption and exploitation of prostitution.