Fast facts
Arizona Daily Wildcat
Thursday, January 15, 2004
Things you always never wanted to know
In 1911, a suburban tailor named Teichelt, who had invented a batwing cape that he believed would enable him to fly, applied for permission to fly from the Eiffel Tower. The proprietors of the tower reluctantly gave permission, provided that Teichelt obtain police authorization and that he sign a waiver absolving the tower's proprietors. Incredibly, the police gave permission. At 8 p.m., on a cold December morning, Teichelt - accompanied by a handful of well-wishers and press photographers - climbed to the level of the first platform, stepped over the edge and plunged to his death.
Once their professional careers are over, Sumo wrestlers slim rapidly, reaching the normal weight for their height and build in only a few months. The years of carrying enormous weight do take their toll, however; the average ex-wrestler is only 64 when he dies.
The 16th century Palace of El Escorial, built by King Phillip II of Spain, was meant to combine all the functions of church and state, and also "to offer respect and honor to death" in both commemorating Spain's victory at San Quentin in 1557 and in memorial for King Phillip I. But the cool thing about the place is that it has 1,200 doors.
The Vatican is the world's smallest country, at 0.16 square miles.
David "Screaming Lord Sutch," leader of the Monster Raving Loony Party, was Britain's longest serving party leader until he hung himself in June 1999 in perhaps the ultimate act of devotion toward a party creed.
In ancient times, it was believed that certain colors could combat the evil spirits that lingered over nurseries. Because blue was associated with the heavenly spirits, boys were clothed in that color - boys then being the most valuable resource to parents. Although baby girls did not have a color associated with them, they were mostly clothed in black. It was only in the Middle Ages that pink became associated with baby girls.