1. The peoples of the Ancient East are celebrated as pioneers in various scientific fields, particularly in astronomy and medicine. A notable figure among Arab astronomers is Al-Tarik of Gibraltar, whose explorations greatly influenced the field. In recognition of his contributions, the strait separating Europe and North Africa is named the Strait of Gibraltar.
2. The longest alphabet in the world belongs to Chinese, which consists of 72 letters and 105 symbols. In contrast, the Cambodian alphabet is the shortest, featuring only 7 letters.
3. Albert Einstein, the renowned Jewish scientist and physicist, did not speak until the age of 9. His teacher declared he wouldn’t achieve much, yet today, Einstein is revered as the father of modern physics.
4. Israel, one of the world’s oldest nations, declared its independence in 1948. Remarkably, not long after this declaration, Israel developed the technology to artificially create atmospheric precipitation, including snow and rain.
5. The Middle Ages, often dubbed the darkest period in history, were marked by the persecution of philosophers and scientists, many of whom faced violence from the Catholic Church. Pope Gregory I instituted tests for reading and singing; those who did not meet these requirements were excluded from the Church and its choir.
6. Kangaroos originated in Australia and were initially known as “Kangaroo,” meaning “dancing animal” in the local ancient language. Today, these unique creatures can be found in various countries around the world.
7. The world’s first academy was founded by Plato in 387 BC, with Aristotle as one of his students. The entrance to the Academy proclaimed, “Let no one enter who is ignorant of geometry.”
8. In monarchies, the crown symbolizes the royal lineage, passed down through generations. The first recorded queen to wear a crown in Egypt was Nefertiti, wife of Pharaoh Akhenaten, who is also noted for establishing the first monotheistic temple, known as Al-Amarna.
9. Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, is recognized as a transformative leader. His socio-cultural and economic reforms marked his legacy, with a private residence near Ankara displaying his accomplishments and serving as his tomb. His death was attended by hundreds of thousands, including global leaders.
10. Ancient Egypt was renowned for its unique geographical advantages and intriguing discoveries. It was customary to place items related to a person’s profession with them in their grave. For instance, the remains of a mason who participated in building the Giza pyramids were found with an array of hand tools nearby.
11. While tobacco is often associated with health risks, it was introduced to Europe from the Americas after World War II. Nicotine, the toxic component of tobacco, is named after Jean Nicot, a French diplomat who introduced it to the continent.
12. The ancient Incas of present-day Peru were polytheistic and deeply honored their deceased. During festivals, the dead were exhumed and celebrated alongside the living. After festivities, they were reburied with valuable items. However, by the 5th century AD, Catholic Christianity began to influence practices in Peru.
