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 13394 – The First Ever YouTube Video

The world’s first YouTube video, titled “Me at the zoo,” was uploaded on April 23, 2005, by Jawed Karim, one of the co-founders of YouTube. It has since garnered millions of views.

However, for a brief moment, a YouTube glitch managed to deceive viewers into believing there was an undiscovered video predating this iconic clip.

What’s the controversy around the first-ever YouTube video?

On January 26, 2023, a video titled “Welcome to YouTube!!!” emerged. It claimed to be the true first-ever YouTube upload. The clip, uploaded on a channel called “enn,” displayed an image of the old YouTube logo on a blue background. It made references to the YouTube co-founders and had an early 2000s aesthetic, so it appeared convincing at first glance.

Luckily, eagle-eyed viewers quickly noticed inconsistencies that cast doubt on the video’s authenticity. For starters, the upload date showed as “Premiered,” which was unusual considering the video claimed to be from 2005.

Additionally, a disabled premiere video live chat was visible, a feature that didn’t exist until 2018. Further investigation revealed other features that weren’t part of the original platform.

To catch a prankster

Of course, people take their Internet history pretty seriously. Some viewers even delved into the source code of the watch page. That’s when they found that the metadata revealed the video was actually uploaded on January 23, 2023. That debunked any notion that a long-lost piece of internet history had been discovered.

Once the truth came to light, a spokesperson acknowledged the glitch that allowed the upload date to be manipulated. They also confirmed that the oldest video on YouTube would always be “Me at the Zoo.” YouTube reassured viewers that this iconic video, uploaded on April 23, 2005, by one of the platform’s co-founders, marked the true beginning of YouTube’s journey.

Despite being caught, the user behind the “enn” channel continued their antics by uploading additional videos, including one titled “premiere bug 01,” falsely claiming to have been published 53 years ago.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “YouTube glitch used to trick users into believing there was an undiscovered oldest video” — Mashable

WTF Fun Fact 13393 – The First Social Media Platform

The first social media platform, Six Degrees, was launched in 1997. It allowed users to create profiles and connect with friends, similar to modern social networks.

Building the first social media platform

Andrew Weinreich developed Six Degrees and took it live in 1997. This groundbreaking platform laid the foundation for the transformative power of social networking.

During the early days of the internet, Six Degrees aimed to bring people together in the digital realm. Weinreich’s brainchild allowed users to create profiles, connect with friends, and exchange messages. In other words, he pioneered the concept of social networking that would shape the future of online interactions.

Making connections

At the heart of Six Degrees was its emphasis on fostering connections. Users could expand their network by linking to friends and acquaintances, creating a web of interwoven relationships. This focus on connectivity became the driving force behind the subsequent explosion of social networking platforms.

However, Six Degrees faced significant challenges along its journey. The internet infrastructure was still in its early stages, characterized by slow speeds and limited accessibility. Additionally, the lack of widespread smartphone usage hindered the platform’s growth. Ultimately, Six Degrees ceased operations in 2000, marking the end of its pioneering era.

Those that came after

Nevertheless, Six Degrees remains a precursor to the vast array of social media platforms we engage with today. Its visionary concept paved the way for subsequent platforms to thrive and redefine the way we connect and engage online.

Following in the footsteps of Six Degrees, a wave of social media platforms emerged in the early 2000s, each offering unique features and functionalities. Platforms like MySpace, Friendster, and LinkedIn capitalized on the growing desire for digital connections and played a crucial role in shaping the social media landscape we know today.

The legacy of Six Degrees lives on as an instrumental chapter in the history of social media. While its reign was relatively short-lived, the platform’s pioneering spirit and its vision of interconnectedness set the stage for the remarkable evolution of social networking that followed.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Then and now: a history of social networking sites” — CBS News

WTF Fun Fact 13392 – The Scott Kelly Gorilla Suit Prank

We know, we know. You’ve seen the viral posts about Mark Kelly smuggling a gorilla suit onto the International Space Station (ISS). But it turns out the hilarious moment is actually the Scott Kelly gorilla suit prank. Scott is Mark’s twin brother, and they are both astronauts.

Now, if you haven’t heard about this prank, you’re probably very confused right now.

The Scott Kelly gorilla suit prank

In 2016, former NASA astronaut Scott Kelly secretly brought a gorilla suit with him on the mission, keeping it hidden from his fellow crew members. It wasn’t until one day that he decided to surprise his unsuspecting colleague.

Scott Kelly, known for his adventurous spirit and sense of humor, had a playful idea in mind. He understood the importance of camaraderie and lighthearted moments to boost morale in the isolated and demanding environment of space.

After smuggling the gorilla suit onboard, Kelly patiently waited for the perfect moment to execute his prank. He knew that the confined quarters of the ISS would amplify the surprise and make the prank memorable.

Finally, the day arrived when Kelly decided to put his plan into action. He donned the gorilla suit and approached his unsuspecting crew member, who was engrossed in his tasks.

Gorillas in space

Kelly lunged towards his crewmate, letting out a playful roar. The crew member, startled by the sudden appearance of a gorilla in space, jumped in surprise, and his shock quickly turned into laughter.

The crew burst into laughter, with Kelly’s prank providing a much-needed moment of levity. The sight of an astronaut in a gorilla suit floating weightlessly through the spacecraft was undoubtedly unforgettable.

The story of Scott Kelly’s gorilla suit prank spread, capturing the amusement of people on Earth. It showcased the lighter side of life aboard the ISS and reminded us that even in the vastness of space, humor and human connections are vital for well-being.

Of course, the presence of the gorilla suit on the ISS was unauthorized. NASA does not allow astronauts to bring personal items on missions. However, in this case, the harmless nature of the prank and the positive impact it had on the crew’s morale overshadowed any reprimand that Kelly may have received.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Fact Check: Did an Astronaut Smuggle a Gorilla Suit Onto the International Space Station?” — Newsweek

WTF Fun Fact 13391 – Giant Penguin Hoax

In 1948, the quiet shores of Clearwater Beach, Florida, were the site of a giant penguin hoax that would continue for a decade and not be explained for another 40 years.

Florida’s giant penguin hoax

Mysterious tracks resembling giant three-toed footprints emerged from the sea, leaving people astounded and intrigued. These footprints, approximately 35 centimeters long and 28 centimeters wide, stretched along the beach for miles, suggesting the presence of a colossal creature.

Word of the strange tracks quickly spread, and eyewitness accounts of unusual creatures started to surface. For example, students at the Dunedin Flying School claimed to have spotted a creature resembling a furry log with a boar’s head swimming in the water. A couple walking along the beach recounted a sighting of a towering creature waddling near the water before vanishing into the sea. The news of these encounters only deepened the mystery.

Monster hunting

The local police were compelled to investigate the footprints. British biologist Ivan Terence Sanderson, known for his ventures into pseudoscience, also took an interest in the case. Sanderson conducted his own investigations. He meticulously studied the tracks that continued to appear over the next decade. Sanderson proposed that a massive, 15-foot-tall penguin might be responsible for the enigmatic footprints.

The case for a giant penguin

Sanderson noted that the tracks consistently followed gentle slopes, even if it meant meandering along the way. Moreover, they skillfully avoided any obstacles, no matter how small, such as bushes or debris. These traits, according to Sanderson, were characteristic of typical animal behavior. He found it implausible that the tracks could be the result of a hoax, given the level of detail and precision involved in their creation.

The idea of an undiscovered giant penguin roaming the beach without anyone noticing seemed more plausible to him.

Uncovering the truth

Fast forward to 1988. That’s when the truth behind the peculiar footprints was finally revealed. A local man named Tony Signorini stepped forward and confessed to the prank.

Signorini and his friend, Al Williams, were inspired by a National Geographic photo of dinosaur footprints. Motivated by a mischievous spirit, they decided to embark on a decade-long hoax. They constructed enormous three-toed metal feet, which they attached to tennis shoes. Their plan involved taking a small rowboat out to sea, with one of them wearing the 14-kilogram (30-pound) shoes and walking up the beach. Later, they would rendezvous with the boat further along the coast.

To create the illusion of a large stride, Signorini would stand on one leg and swing the other, building momentum for a jump. The pair often had their friend report the footprints the following day to ensure their efforts wouldn’t go unnoticed. They meticulously orchestrated a prank that fooled the public and even experts for an astonishing four decades.

After Signorini’s passing in 2013, his family made sure that his obituary commemorated his role as “The Clearwater Monster.”

— WTF fun facts

Source: “The Giant Penguin Hoax That Fooled Florida For 10 Whole Years” — IFL Science

WTF Fun Fact 13390 – Pet Appreciation Week

The first full week of June 2023 marks a special occasion for pet lovers around the world—it’s Pet Appreciation Week! This week-long celebration is dedicated to honoring the love, companionship, and joy that our furry friends bring into our lives. That means this week is a time to recognize the immeasurable value that pets bring to our well-being and to show our appreciation for their unwavering loyalty and affection.

Why do we celebrate Pet Appreciation Week?

During Pet Appreciation Week, people of all ages come together to express gratitude for their beloved pets. Whether you have a dog, cat, bird, fish, or any other furry, feathery, or scaly companion, this week is all about cherishing their presence and recognizing the positive impact they have on our lives.

Pets hold a special place in our hearts and homes. For example, they provide unconditional love, comfort, and support, offering a sense of companionship that can brighten even the dullest of days. And their playful antics, gentle purrs, wagging tails, and welcoming chirps can instantly lift our spirits and bring a smile to our faces.

This dedicated week encourages pet owners to reflect on the happiness and joy that their pets bring and to engage in activities that strengthen the bond between human and animal. It’s a time to shower our pets with extra love, attention, and care, as well as to raise awareness about responsible pet ownership.

How can you celebrate?

Throughout Pet Appreciation Week, there are various ways to celebrate and express gratitude towards our pets. Here are some ideas to make this week extra special:

  1. Quality Time: Set aside dedicated time to engage in activities that your pet enjoys. Take your dog for a long walk, play with your cat using their favorite toys, or spend time bonding with your bird or reptile in their habitat. The key is to focus on creating meaningful moments of connection.
  2. Healthy Treats: Surprise your pet with some delicious and nutritious treats. Consider making homemade pet-friendly snacks or explore the wide range of healthy treats available in pet stores. Remember to choose treats that are suitable for your pet’s dietary needs.
  3. Support Animal Shelters: Use this week as an opportunity to give back to animals in need. Volunteer at a local animal shelter, donate pet supplies, or consider adopting a rescue pet. By supporting shelters, you’re making a positive impact on the lives of animals and promoting responsible pet ownership.
  4. Pet Photography: Capture precious moments with your pet through photography. For example, snap some candid shots or arrange a professional photoshoot to create lasting memories. These photographs serve as beautiful reminders of the joy and love shared with your pet.
  5. Learn and Educate: Take the time to learn more about your pet’s specific needs, behavior, and health requirements. Expand your knowledge by reading books, attending workshops, or consulting with veterinarians or experienced pet owners. Share your newfound knowledge with others to promote responsible pet ownership in your community.

Love your pets!

Pet Appreciation Week is a reminder to cherish our furry friends, not only during this dedicated week but throughout the year. Pets bring immeasurable joy, comfort, and companionship, and they deserve our utmost appreciation. So, take this opportunity to celebrate the bond you share with your pet and make their week extra special with acts of love, care, and gratitude.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Pet Appreciation Week” — National Today

WTF Fun Fact 13389 – Single Presidents

Overall, nine single presidents in U.S. history. But some were widowers to begin with or became widowers in office. Grover Cleveland and James Buchanan were the only true bachelors to be elected president.

A singular occasion

On June 2, 1886, something remarkable occurred in American history when Cleveland, the 22nd and 24th President of the United States, broke tradition by becoming the first U.S. president to marry while in office.

In a private ceremony held at the White House, Cleveland exchanged vows with Frances Folsom, a woman 27 years younger than him. This event captivated the public’s attention and set a new precedent for presidential marriages.

Single presidents are rare

Before Cleveland, James Buchanan held the distinction of being the only unmarried president. Throughout his tenure as the 15th president from 1857 to 1861, Buchanan remained a lifelong bachelor, a unique status that fascinated many. His unmarried status stood out amidst the expectations of the time and became an intriguing aspect of his presidential legacy.

Cleveland’s marriage to Frances Folsom became a source of great interest and fascination for both the public and the media. The significant age difference between the two further fueled curiosity. Cleveland, aged 49 at the time, married Frances, who was a mere 21, making her the youngest first lady in U.S. history. Their wedding, held in the Blue Room of the White House, attracted attention nationwide and garnered extensive media coverage.

Even more eyebrow-raising was the fact that Cleveland was expected to marry Frances’ mother when she became a widower!

A rare presidential wedding

Cleveland’s decision to marry while serving as president challenged the traditional perception of the presidency. It showcased a more personal and relatable side of the president, emphasizing his capacity for love, companionship, and family life. The public’s reception of their union reflected evolving societal norms, recognizing the president as an individual capable of forming personal connections and balancing personal and public responsibilities.

Frances Folsom Cleveland’s presence as the first lady injected youthfulness and charm into the White House. She quickly became a popular figure, admired for her grace and elegance. Her involvement in social and public activities added a touch of glamour to the political arena. The Cleveland marriage symbolized unity and hope, bridging generational and social gaps within the country.

While Grover Cleveland’s marriage broke new ground, it is essential to highlight the contrasting story of James Buchanan. Buchanan’s lifelong bachelorhood remains a topic of intrigue in presidential history. His personal choice to remain unmarried added an air of mystery to his presidency, setting him apart from his contemporaries.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Has There Ever Been An Unmarried U.S. President?” — Bustle

WTF Fun Fact 13388 – Ancient Olympics vs. Modern Olympics

The ancient Olympics ran ten times longer than the modern Olympics. The Games were held at least 293 times from 776 BC to 393 AD. That means the ancient version had a consecutive run of 1,169 years vs. the modern Olympics, which began in 1896.

Olympic origins

The ancient Olympics, originating in ancient Greece, were deeply rooted in religious and cultural traditions. They were held in honor of the Greek god Zeus and took place in the sacred city of Olympia. The games were a testament to the physical prowess and competitive spirit of the ancient Greek civilization. Participants from various city-states would gather to showcase their athletic abilities and engage in friendly competition.

The ancient Olympics were much different from their modern counterpart in terms of events, rules, and significance. The ancient games featured a limited number of sports disciplines, primarily focused on athletics, combat sports, and equestrian events. The most prestigious event was the stadion race, a sprint of approximately 200 meters. Other events included wrestling, boxing, chariot racing, and the pentathlon, which consisted of running, long jump, discus throw, javelin throw, and wrestling.

The ancient Olympics held a unique place in the hearts and minds of ancient Greeks. They served as a unifying force, bringing together people from various regions and fostering a sense of shared identity.

The games were not merely a display of athletic prowess but were deeply intertwined with religious rituals and cultural celebrations. The Olympic truce, known as the ekecheiria, ensured a cessation of hostilities during the games, allowing safe passage for athletes and spectators alike.

Ancient Olympics vs. the modern Olympics

As the centuries passed, the ancient Olympics faced various challenges and disruptions. The rise of the Roman Empire and subsequent spread of Christianity gradually diminished the significance of the games. Emperor Theodosius I, in 393 AD, officially banned the Olympics, considering them a pagan practice. The ancient Olympics came to an end, leaving behind a rich legacy and a symbol of human achievement.

In contrast, the modern Olympic Games started up in the late 19th century. Organizers were driven by a vision to promote international unity through sports. The inaugural modern Olympics took place in Athens, Greece, in 1896, with athletes from 14 nations participating in nine sports disciplines.

Since then, the modern Olympics have grown exponentially. But the longevity of the ancient Olympics, with their uninterrupted run for over a millennium, stands as a testament to the enduring power of sports and human endeavor.

While the modern Olympics have not yet matched the remarkable duration of their ancient counterpart, they have evolved into a global celebration of athletic excellence, cultural exchange, and unity among nations.

When comparing the ancient Olympics vs. modern Olympics’ running time, the old record is going to be hard to beat. — WTF fun facts

Source: “Ancient Olympic Games” — World History Encyclopedia

WTF Fun Fact 13387 – Earth’s Core May Be Hotter Than The Sun

Scientists believe that the Earth’s core, consisting primarily of iron and nickel, may be hotter than the surface of the sun, with temperatures reaching up to 5,500 degrees Celsius (9,932 degrees Fahrenheit).

Why do scientists think the Earth’s core is hotter than the sun’s surface?

The Earth’s core, located approximately 2,900 kilometers (1,800 miles) beneath the Earth’s surface, remains an elusive and challenging realm for direct exploration. Despite the inability to physically access the core, scientists have employed a combination of sophisticated techniques, including theoretical modeling and seismic studies, to gain insights into its temperature.

Scientists use the analysis of seismic waves generated by earthquakes to study the temperature of the planet’s core. By studying the behavior of these waves as they travel through different layers of the Earth, scientists can infer valuable information about the planet’s internal structure and temperature distribution.

Through seismic studies, scientists have determined that the core’s temperature increases significantly as one ventures deeper into the Earth. The most scorching temperatures are found at the boundary between the outer and inner core, approximately 3,200 miles beneath the Earth’s surface. Here, researchers estimate that the temperature reaches nearly 6,000 degrees Celsius (10,800 degrees Fahrenheit). So, if that’s the case, then the earth’s core is hotter than the sun.

Where’d that heat come from?

Interestingly, the heat in the Earth’s core does not come from the sun. The core’s exceptional temperatures are sustained by two primary heat sources. The first source of heat originates from the residual energy trapped within the Earth since its formation around 4.5 billion years ago. During the Earth’s early stages, countless collisions and mergers between rock fragments produced an immense amount of heat, some of which remains within the core to this day.

The second source of heat within the core arises from the radioactive decay of isotopes present throughout the Earth. Radioactive elements such as potassium-40, thorium-232, uranium-235, and uranium-238 release energy as they undergo decay, contributing to the overall heat budget of the core.

While the core’s temperatures may exceed those of the sun’s surface, it is important to note that the conditions in the core are drastically different. The core’s high pressures prevent its iron-nickel composition from vaporizing into gas despite the extreme temperatures.

This unique combination of heat and pressure creates an environment that sustains the core in a liquid or solid state.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “How has Earth’s core stayed as hot as the sun’s surface for billions of years?” — Space.com

WTF Fun Fact 13386 – Wearing White Before Memorial Day

Wearing white between Memorial Day and Labor Day has long been a fashion tradition in the United States. We often associate it with the summer season. In some places, Americans still consider this custom a style guideline, and people may still follow it in more formal or traditional settings.

The origins of wearing white between Memorial Day and Labor Day

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed the emergence of a fashion rule that linked wearing white to staying cool in hot weather. People then deemed it appropriate for summer attire. This rule predominantly gained popularity among the upper classes. They often spent summers at vacation resorts or country estates. Wearing white garments, particularly lightweight fabrics, allowed them to reflect sunlight and remain cool. It also became a symbol of fashion and social status.

Over time, the tradition of wearing white between Memorial Day and Labor Day became deeply ingrained in American culture. Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer in late May. Labor Day in early September, signifies its end. These holidays, therefore, served as bookends for this period of traditional white attire.

Violating fashion norms

Wearing white after Labor Day was generally discouraged as it was seen as a violation of established fashion norms. This was eventually the case among all social classes. The belief was that white was more suitable for warm-weather occasions, and transitioning to darker, autumnal colors was considered appropriate as the season changed.

Middle and lower class people also adopted the custom. This is in part because dressing is a way of socially conforming or trying to project one’s class. Wearing white was an aspirational mimicking of what the wealthy class was doing.

Breaking rules

However, fashion rules have evolved, and the strict adherence to the “no white after Labor Day” rule has waned in modern times. Many individuals now choose to wear white throughout the year, and fashion trends have become more individualistic, breaking away from traditional guidelines.

While the significance of the “no white after Labor Day” rule has diminished, some people and social circles may still choose to adhere to it as a personal preference or a nod to traditional fashion etiquette. Ultimately, the decision to wear white or any other color during a specific time of the year is a matter of personal style and choice.

— WTF fun facts

Source: “Why can’t you wear white after Labor Day? Fashion’s perennial rule, explained.” — USA Today