› added 1 year ago

45

TIL after a typhoon severely damaged the USS Hornet, the carrier attacked Japanese forces by launching airplanes over her stern while in reverse.

Read more wikipedia.org

via reddit.com

BvXL TIL Before Chernobyl, the Soviets had another massive nuclear disaster which contaminated over 20,000 square km. The area was turned into a preserve to cover up the accident. The CIA knew of the accident, but also covered it up in order to protect the fledgling US nuclear industry from hysteria.
nemgW TIL In 2006, China slaughtered 50,000 dogs after three people died of rabies. Dogs being walked were seized from their owners and beaten to death on the spot. Owners were offered 63 cents per animal to kill their own dogs before the beating teams were sent in.
160pr TIL: In 536 AD, a volcanic eruption triggered a "year without a summer," leading to global darkness, extreme cold, crop failures, and famine. This climate catastrophe marked one of the worst periods in human history, nearly ending civilizations due to widespread social and economic collapse.
6EQQQ TIL seagulls will pluck the eyes from baby seals to prevent them from seeking help making it easier to eat them.
9YVbB TIL that one of the leading causes of polio outbreaks in the 20th century was the creation of modern, underground sewers that prevented children from being exposed to the virus at a younger and safer age.