WTF • Fun • Fact    ( /dʌb(ə)lˌju/  /ti/   /ef/ • /fʌn/ • /fækt/ )

     1. noun  A random, interesting, and overall fun fact that makes you scratch your head and think what the...

WTF Fun Fact 13518 – History of the Mug Shot

The mug shot has always been relatively controversial. But do you know it’s interesting history? It all goes back to the history of photography itself, and it all starts in Belgium.

The History of the Mug Shot

The 1840s were a revolutionary period for the art of photography. While William Henry Harrison became the first US president to be captured in a photograph after his inauguration speech, it has been lost to time. Another iconic daguerreotype featuring John Quincy Adams, exists as the oldest known presidential photograph.

But enough about presidents. The point is that while photography was primarily aimed at capturing the nobility and prestige of the subjects, it would soon find an unlikely application in law enforcement.

The concept of the mugshot emerged in Belgium during the 1840s. The primary goal was simple: photograph prisoners to facilitate their identification if they ever re-offended post-release.

Recognizing the potential of this innovation, police forces globally began to toy with the idea of incorporating photography into their operations. Thus, the U.S. saw the birth of the rogues’ galleries, which showcased collections of criminals’ photographs and, at times, even made them public, urging citizens to remain vigilant.

Alphonse Bertillon and the Art of the Mug Shot

It wasn’t until the 1880s that mugshots became relatively standardized. Alphonse Bertillon, the chief of criminal identification for the Paris police, played a pivotal role in achieving this.

Bertillion introduced the concept of pairing two photographs: one frontal and one profile. Alongside these photos, physical descriptions and specific measurements, like ear or foot size, were documented. This compilation was termed a “portrait parlé”—a speaking image.

Bertillon’s vision was clear: even if criminals adopted disguises or aliases, their unique physical characteristics would betray them.

As a testament to his dedication, the New York City Police Department, in 1908, provided guidelines on correctly executing Bertillon’s method. This documentation even described how to handle uncooperative subjects during the mugshot process.

However, despite Bertillon’s contribution, his descriptive methods were soon overshadowed by the more efficient process of fingerprinting.

Yet, the mugshot itself was here to stay. It became an integral part of identification processes everywhere.

Mug Shots in Contemporary Culture

Today, mugshots serve multiple purposes for the alleged criminal themselves. In fact, for celebrities, these images can sometimes even enhance their mystique, further ingraining them in pop culture. Johnny Cash, for instance, turned one of his brief incarcerations into a song, and today, his mugshot-themed merchandise sells as a testament to his “rebel” image.

While some celebrity mugshots serve as tabloid fodder, others, in specific contexts, represent symbols of resistance. Notable figures from the civil rights movement, like Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr., had their mugshots taken during their arrests. For them, these images were badges of honor, symbolizing their unyielding fight against systemic injustice.

Since its inception in 1840s Belgium, what started as a mere tool for identification now serves as both a mark of shame and a badge of honor. For some.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “A Brief History of the Mug Shot” — Smithsonian Magazine

WTF Fun Fact 13517 – Ina Garten’s White House Job

TV chef Ina Garten’s White House job came as a huge surprise to us. She was an engineer. A nuclear analyst, to be exact.

Garten’s Early Years

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Ina Garten did not initially tread a path leading to culinary mastery. After completing her MBA from George Washington University, she entered the corridors of power and policy, dedicating her analytical mind to deciphering the intricacies of nuclear policy under the tenures of Presidents Ford and Carter.

Nuclear policies, especially during the Cold War, were a tangled web of political posturing, strategic interests, and global safety concerns. Therefore, Ina Garten’s White House job was no small feat. It involved navigating through these delicate matrices and contributing to decisions of profound national importance.

Becoming the Barefoot Contessa

In 1978, a modest ad in a newspaper altered the course of Ina’s life. A small specialty food store, named ‘”he Barefoot Contessa,” was up for sale in Westhampton Beach, New York. Despite having zero culinary training, Garten saw an opportunity. Or perhaps she saw an escape from the high-stakes world of nuclear policies.

Acquiring the store, she embarked on a gourmet adventure, slowly transforming it into a haven for food lovers.

Her undeniable passion and dedication turned The Barefoot Contessa into a roaring success. Capitalizing on this momentum, Ina Garten ventured into the realm of cookbooks. Her debut, in 1999, was a hit, acting as a launchpad for her widely-loved Food Network show in 2002. On screen, she brought warmth, authenticity, and a touch of classic European culinary techniques, quickly making her a household name.

A Sprawling Journey

The magnitude of Ina Garten’s career transition cannot be understated. One day, she was immersed in policy documents, analyzing global nuclear strategies. The next, she was selecting the finest ingredients, crafting exquisite dishes, and teaching millions to find joy in cooking.

While many know Ina Garten as the charismatic “Barefoot Contessa” who sprinkles culinary magic on television, her journey from deciphering nuclear policies in the White House to whisking eggs in a sunlit kitchen is quite an interesting and unexpected journey.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Ina Garten, explained: How a nuclear budget analyst became the Barefoot Contessa” — VOX

WTF Fun Fact 13516 – Bald Eagle Breaststroke


Bald eagles, like some other birds of prey, can swim using a movement that’s remarkably similar to the human breaststroke. If an eagle catches a fish that’s too heavy to lift, it may use its wings in a swimming motion to move to shore with its catch.

The Bald Eagle Breast Stroke

When one thinks of the American bald eagle, a distinctive image comes to mind: a majestic bird soaring high in the skies, its sharp eyes scouting below for prey, or perched high atop a tree or cliff. Rarely do we picture this iconic bird swimming in water, wings sprawled out, making its way steadily to the shore.

However, bald eagles are primarily fish eaters, and their hunting strategy involves swooping down from a high perch or mid-air to snatch fish out of the water with their talons. Sometimes the prey might be too hefty for the eagle to lift.

Instead of abandoning the catch, the eagle, driven by instinct and determination, will resort to “swimming” to the nearest shore, using its wings in a motion reminiscent of the human breaststroke.

The Mechanics of the Eagle’s “Breaststroke”

Eagles, like all birds, have powerful pectoral muscles that control their wing movements. When airborne, these muscles allow them to achieve strong, sustained flapping or to glide gracefully using updrafts. In the water, these same muscles serve a different but equally vital purpose.

An eagle in the water will spread its wings out and push against the water, essentially using its wings as makeshift paddles. This motion propels the bird forward in a slow but steady manner. The movement is surprisingly coordinated, and the resemblance to the human breaststroke is uncanny. The eagle keeps its head above water, looks straight ahead, and aims for the shore.

Swimming is not an eagle’s forte, so the bald eagle breaststroke is not something you’re likely to see.

The process is energy-intensive and leaves the bird vulnerable to potential threats. The waterlogged feathers become heavy, making the task even more arduous.

However, the promise of a big meal may outweigh the risks, especially during breeding season when there are eaglets to feed. A large fish can provide sustenance for the entire family.

While the image of a bald eagle swimming might seem incongruous, it’s a vivid reminder of the surprising and often overlooked behaviors of the animal kingdom. Nature is full of examples of adaptability and resilience, and the bald eagle’s occasional foray into aquatic locomotion is a fascinating instance of this.

Want to see an eagle in action? Check it out:

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Bald Eagle Does the Breaststroke” — Good Nature

WTF Fun Fact 13515 – Basketball Backboard

The basketball backboard wasn’t invented for the reason you think.

The backboard stands out not just for its functional relevance in today’s game but also for its surprising origin. Contrary to popular belief, the backboard wasn’t initially introduced for the bank shot or to guide rebounds. It was there to prevent overly enthusiastic fans from interfering!

Basketball History

Dr. James Naismith, a physical education instructor from Canada, invented basketball in 1891. He was trying to create a game that could be played indoors during the winter. So he thought up a sport involving a ball and two peach baskets.

Naismith drafted a set of thirteen rules for this new game. However, those original rules didn’t account for the human factor—specifically, the enthusiasm of spectators.

As basketball games started to draw larger crowds, a problem became apparent. The fans, seated on a running track that circled above the gym floor of Springfield College, leaned over the railing and either deflected the ball as shots were made or caught it and threw it to favor one side.

Given the close proximity of these early spectators to the action, it was tempting for them to become a part of the game themselves.

The Introduction of the Basketball Backboard

To counter this unexpected disruption, officials deemed a physical barrier necessary. The solution? A backboard placed directly behind the basket. Initially made of wire and later wood, these backboards served as a fence to prevent interference, ensuring the game remained fair and wasn’t swayed by overzealous fans.

It’s intriguing to think that an element of the game so crucial to strategies and point-scoring was introduced not for the players but to keep the audience in check!

Evolution and Unintended Consequences

With the introduction of the backboard, players soon discovered they could use it as a tool to assist in scoring. This gave birth to the “bank shot,” where players bounce the ball off the backboard to get it into the basket. This unforeseen consequence added depth and strategy to the game.

Furthermore, as the game progressed and rules evolved, the material and specifications of the backboard changed. From the initial wire and wooden structures, today’s backboards are often made of shatterproof glass, which is both durable and allows spectators a clear view of the action.

While its original purpose was to deter fan interference, the backboard has become an integral part of basketball strategy. Players spend hours perfecting bank shots and learning the angles. It plays a role in defense strategies, as players block or “box out” opponents to control rebounds.

Moreover, the slam dunk, one of the most celebrated moves in basketball, often involves players making strong jumps and using the backboard to slam the ball down into the net, adding flair and drama to the game.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “The History of the Basketball Backboard” — SportsRec

WTF Fun Fact 13514 – Cuddly Sharks Sleeping

National Geographic gave us a unique look into the little-known habit of “cuddly” sharks sleeping together.

Of course, when one thinks of a shark, the image that often comes to mind is that of a fierce predator. The last thing you’d imagine is a creature with “cuddly sleep habits.” But what if the way sharks rest and sleep is more fascinating than you might believe?

Understanding Sharks Sleeping

Unlike humans, sharks don’t have eyelids, so it’s challenging to determine when they’re asleep or awake by merely observing them. However, that doesn’t mean they’re always on the prowl. Sharks have periods of rest and activity, but their “sleep” is different from what we typically understand.

Most sharks need to keep moving to breathe. Water flows over their gills, providing them with the necessary oxygen. This phenomenon might make it seem like sharks never rest, but that’s not entirely true.

Do Sharks Really Sleep?

The concept of sleep in sharks is intriguing. Some species have been observed to enter a state called “tonic immobility.” This natural state of paralysis, which can last for minutes, isn’t sleep in the traditional sense. Instead, it’s more of a trance-like state where the shark becomes incredibly still and can be handled without reacting. It’s not entirely understood why sharks enter this state, but it’s believed to be a defense mechanism.

While the idea of sharks being “cuddly” is a stretch, some species do exhibit social behaviors that might surprise you. For instance, the Spotted Wobbegong, a type of carpet shark, has been observed resting in groups, often piled atop one another, almost like a group cuddle!

While this behavior is more about conserving energy and space than seeking comfort, it’s an endearing sight that shatters many shark stereotypes.

Adaptable and Ever-Evolving

The world of sharks is vast, with over 400 species, each with its unique habits and idiosyncrasies. Some species have evolved specialized methods to rest while maintaining their oxygen flow. The Spiracle, an organ located just behind the eyes of some sharks, allows them to draw water while being stationary. This adaptation enables species like the Whitetip reef shark to lie on the ocean floor and rest without constantly swimming.

While “cuddly” might be a whimsical way to describe the rest habits of sharks, there’s no doubt that these majestic creatures of the deep have a side to them that’s less understood and more fascinating than their fearsome reputation suggests.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Rare Footage Shows the Cuddly Sleeping Habits of Sharks” — Mental Floss

WTF Fun Fact 13513 – Apple Mouse Prototype

Innovation often comes from the most unexpected places–like a roll-on deodorant. Believe it or nor, the first Apple mouse prototype involved a deodorant ball.

Setting the Scene

The early 1980s was a transformative era for personal computing. The market was teeming with potential, and Steve Jobs, Apple’s visionary co-founder, recognized the importance of a user-friendly interface.

While visiting Xerox’s Palo Alto Research Center (PARC), Jobs was introduced to the concept of a graphical user interface and a device to navigate it: the mouse.

Enchanted by its potential, Jobs sought to integrate this technology into Apple’s computers. However, the existing design was clunky, costly, and far from the elegant solution Apple desired.

Birth of the Apple Mouse

Jobs handed the task of redesigning the mouse to Dean Hovey, a co-founder of the design firm IDEO. The challenge was clear: create a more efficient, durable, and above all, affordable mouse for the masses.

Hovey, in his endeavor to revolutionize the mouse’s design, found inspiration in an unlikely source: a deodorant stick. By taking apart a roll-on deodorant, Hovey observed that the ball could roll smoothly in any direction. This ball mechanism, he realized, could be the solution to creating a mouse that was both precise and cost-effective.

From Prototype to Product

Utilizing the deodorant ball, the team developed a prototype that was simpler and more efficient than its predecessors. It was an embodiment of Apple’s design philosophy — taking complex ideas and making them accessible and intuitive for the user.

But why was the deodorant ball so transformative? The key lay in its omnidirectional capability. Previous mouse designs often used wheels, limiting movement to two axes: horizontal and vertical.

The deodorant ball’s ability to roll freely in all directions allowed for more fluid and accurate on-screen movements, a feature that would become fundamental to the mouse’s operation.

Impact of the Apple Mouse

The Apple mouse, with its deodorant-inspired design, debuted in 1983 with the Apple Lisa computer, and a year later, with the iconic Apple Macintosh. Its release marked a paradigm shift in human-computer interaction, paving the way for the mouse to become an essential accessory for personal computers worldwide.

Though the internal mechanics of mice have evolved over the years, with laser and optical technologies replacing the ball mechanism, the foundational concept remains largely unchanged. The success of the Apple mouse laid the groundwork for future innovations in interface devices, from trackpads to touch screens.

Today, as we swipe, tap, and click our way through digital landscapes, it’s worth reflecting on the humble origins of the tools we often take for granted. The next time you roll on your deodorant, remember: it’s not just a daily ritual but a nod to a piece of technological history that helped shape the digital age.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “How the Guy Who Designed 1 of Apple’s Most Iconic Products Organizes His Office” — Inc.

WTF Fun Fact 13512 – Japan Found 7000 New Islands

When it comes to counting, it’s easy to imagine we have it all figured out, but Japan found 7000 new islands recently.

In 1987, a Japan Coast Guard report noted the archipelago had 6,852 islands. But the Geospatial Information Authority of Japan (GSI) has recently identified a staggering 7,273 additional islands!

Japan Found 7000 New Islands with Geospatial Technology

How did this happen? One could easily jump to the conclusion of tectonic activities or rising sea levels. But the primary reason behind the updated count can be attributed to technological advancements.

Since the 1987 report, geospatial technology has undergone significant evolution. Now mappers can distinguish between small clusters of islands that were earlier misidentified as single landmasses.

Nature, too, has played a significant role in reshaping Japan’s topography. The nation’s landscape is in perpetual flux, molded by natural disasters and extreme weather conditions. For instance, Esanbe Hanakita Kojima, an islet that was approximately four-and-a-half feet above sea level, vanished, succumbing to wind and ice erosion.

But nature isn’t just taking away; it’s also giving. In 2015, a massive landslide caused a 984-foot strip of land to annex itself to Hokkaido, Japan’s second-largest island. In 2021, an underwater volcanic eruption 750 miles south of Tokyo birthed a crescent-shaped island.

It’s worth noting, though, that such volcanic-born islands tend to be ephemeral, often disintegrating due to erosion, as history indicates with similar formations in 1904, 1914, and 1986.

The Changing Definition of an Island

Interestingly, the way we define an “island” has also evolved over the years. Back in 1987, sandbanks and islands nestled in lakes and rivers weren’t recognized as islands, primarily due to the U.N. Convention on the Law of the Sea’s criteria.

Today, the narrative is different. The convention now acknowledges any “naturally formed area of land, surrounded by water, which is above water at high tide” as an island.

While the numbers are captivating, the real charm lies in the individual identity and character of these islands. Japan’s four primary islands are Honshu, home to iconic cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka; Hokkaido, renowned for its national parks; Shikoku; and Kyushu. Interspersed among these are gems like Naoshima, celebrated as the “art island” for its modern and contemporary art museums, and Ōkunoshima, lovingly referred to as Usagi Jima or “rabbit island” due to the hundreds of wild rabbits that freely wander its landscapes.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Japan Just Discovered More Than 7,000 Islands It Didn’t Know Existed” — Travel & Leisure

WTF Fun Fact 13511 – The Icelandic Alfhol


In the enchanting landscapes of Iceland, you might stumble upon a tiny, intricately designed house called an Alfhol.

Alfhóls are built specially for the huldufólk, or hidden folk, of Icelandic folklore. Many Icelanders still hold a genuine belief in these elves and construct these homes as a gesture of goodwill, ensuring harmony between the human and the mystical realms.

The Icelandic Alfhol and it’s Inhabitants

One of the most captivating aspects of Icelandic culture is the belief in the hidden folk, or the huldufólk. These are not just tales for children; many Icelanders hold a genuine belief in these invisible entities, often associated with elves.

Some Icelanders believe that these beings, often invisible to human eyes, lead lives parallel to ours, having families, tending to livestock, and even attending church. And just as humans need shelter, so too do these hidden folk.

An Alfhol is a miniature house, often intricately designed to resemble traditional Icelandic homes. Constructing an Alfhól is a gesture of goodwill. Disturbing rocks and hills, believed to be the residences of these beings, is thought to bring misfortune. By building them a dedicated house, Icelanders hope to maintain harmony with their unseen neighbors.

While some Alfhóls are simple stone structures, others can be quite elaborate, replicating churches, homes with turf roofs, or even modern-day constructions. Attention to detail is evident in many of these tiny abodes, complete with doors, windows, and external decorations.

The Alfhol in Icelandic Culture

The belief in huldufólk is deeply entrenched in Icelandic culture. This is not a relic of the past; these traditions are very much alive today.

There have been instances where road construction projects in Iceland were altered or postponed due to concerns about disturbing the habitats of the hidden folk. In some cases, locals have even sought the help of mediums to communicate with the elves and seek their approval before proceeding with construction.

Iceland has festivals where the huldufólk are central figures. During these events, Alfhóls might receive gifts or offerings, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between humans and the hidden folk.

Why the Deep-rooted Belief?

One might wonder why, in a country as modern as Iceland, such a belief persists. There’s no singular answer, but a combination of factors contribute:

The rugged landscapes of Iceland have shaped its inhabitants. Respect for nature, and the mysteries it holds, is a cornerstone of Icelandic culture. The belief in huldufólk is an extension of this respect.

Stories of elves and hidden folk have been passed down through generations. These tales are a part of Iceland’s rich oral tradition, giving them a life of their own.

Whether one believes in the huldufólk or not, the Alfhóls stand as symbols of Iceland’s cultural identity. They represent a bridge between the ancient and the modern, the seen and the unseen.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Elves are so real in Iceland they even have their own homes” — Earthly Mission

WTF Fun Fact 13510 – Stephen Hawking’s Wheelchair

Stephen Hawking’s wheelchair was auctioned off for a staggering $387,000 in 2018.

In addition to his groundbreaking contributions to our understanding of the universe, Hawking’s name evokes an image of a man in a wheelchair, speaking through a voice synthesizer—a testament to his fierce determination and willpower in the face of a debilitating motor neuron disease.

Stephen Hawking and His Legacy

Before diving into the story of the iconic wheelchair, it’s essential to grasp the breadth of Hawking’s influence. Born in 1942, he made substantial contributions to cosmology, particularly in black hole dynamics and the nature of the universe.

His best-selling book, A Brief History of Time, made intricate cosmological concepts accessible to the general public, ensuring his place not just within the scientific community but also in popular culture.

Hawking’s motor neuron disease diagnosis at the age of 21 was a life-altering moment. Doctors predicted a short lifespan, but he surpassed all expectations by living till the age of 76.

As the disease progressed, mobility became a challenge, and the wheelchair became an integral part of his life. It wasn’t just a tool for movement; it became synonymous with his identity, symbolizing his resilience and the human spirit’s triumph over adversity.

Auctioning Stephen Hawking’s Wheelchair

In 2018, Christie’s auction house in London announced “On the Shoulders of Giants,” an auction featuring items belonging to several renowned scientists, including Hawking. The most poignant item was undoubtedly Hawking’s wheelchair, a piece of modern history.

The wheelchair, used by Hawking in the late 1980s and early 1990s, garnered significant attention. While it was an older model and not the high-tech version he used later in life, its historical and symbolic value was immense. The mere fact that such a personal item from a living legend was up for grabs drew significant global attention.

Hawking’s decision to auction his wheelchair was rooted in his commitment to giving back to the community. The proceeds from the sale were designated for two charitable causes close to his heart: The Stephen Hawking Foundation, which supports neurological research and promotes science education, and the Motor Neurone Disease Association, dedicated to supporting individuals like Hawking who face the challenges of this condition.

Bidding on History

The auction saw fervent bidding, with the wheelchair eventually selling for approximately $387,000 – a figure far surpassing initial estimates. The winning bid was not just for a mobility device but a piece of history. The buyer, whose identity remained anonymous, now owned a symbol of determination, brilliance, and the indomitable human spirit.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Stephen Hawking’s Wheelchair and Thesis Fetch More Than $1 Million at Auction” — The New York Times