History Trivia

When George Washington was elected President, there was a King in France, a Tsarina in Russia, an Emperor in China, and a Shogun in Japan.

Six people died in Oregon during World War II as a result of Japanese balloon bombs.

The dome on Monticello conceals a billiard room (billiards were illegal in Virginia at that time).

Armored knights raised their helmet visors to identify themselves when they rode past royalty. This custom was evolved into the military hand salute.

Spiral staircases in medieval castles turn right as they ascend. This was so that right handed knights defending the castle could more easily combat invading foes who were climbing the stairs.

Dashing horses kicking up mud, splashing the passengers riding behind them in a carriage, led to the invention of the dashboard.

Neil Armstrong first stepped on the moon with his left foot.

Great Britain was the first country to issue postage stamps, so theirs are the only stamps in the world not to bear the name of the country of origin. And the glue on Israeli postage stamps is certified kosher.

Sputnik,the first Russian satellite, was launched on October 4, 1957, the same day that "Leave It To Beaver" debuted.

The Declaration of Independence was written on hemp paper.

The U.S. purchased Alaska from Russia for approximately 2 cents an acre.

Robert E. Lee is the only person to date to have graduated from West Point military academy without a single demerit.