› added 1 week ago

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TIL the use of blinding laser weapons was outlawed under the 1995 Protocol on Blinding Laser Weapons and prohibited the use of “laser weapons specifically designed, as their sole combat function or as one of their combat functions, to cause permanent blindness to unenhanced vision.”

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via reddit.com

p8X48 TIL The phrase "mad as a hatter" originated in the hat making industry of the 18th century as mercury nitrate was a vital substance used in the production process. This lead to a variety of physical and mental ailments, including tremors (“hatter’s shakes”), speech problems, emotional instabilities.
8aAPa TIL that John Mulaney’s substance abuse was once so bad, his college therapist refused to end a session until he called an outpatient rehab program to get help.
W7ZD9 TIL that in 1981, a dog named Bosco was elected honorary mayor of Sunol, California, defeating two human candidates. He served until his passing in 1994 and even became a symbol in international discussions about democracy.
A4Ld TIL That Crocodiles and Alligators are more closely related to birds than they are other species of reptiles
pGa4 TIL that Kent cigarettes, a popular brand from the 50s through the 70s, had filters made of asbestos fibers. (and yes, that is the bad kind of asbestos)