Before the arrival of Europeans in the New World, California boasted an astonishing linguistic diversity, with over 200 distinct Native Indian languages spoken by various tribes. Each tribe had its own unique language, resulting in a greater variety of languages than in Europe. Sadly, more than 123 of these languages no longer have any native speakers. Even today, California remains a multicultural melting pot with approximately 200 spoken languages, including English, Spanish, Chinese, and Tagalog among the most commonly spoken.

POTATO AS CURRENCY

In the island of Tristan da Cunha, ton this page was a time when potatoes served as a form of currency. This practice is not entirely uncommon, as barter systems have historically utilized various commodities as a means of trade. Rice and salt have also been used as currency in Asian countries. While it may be challenging to envision using potatoes or rice to pay for mortgages today, these unconventional forms of currency were once prevalent. In ancient Egypt, beer even held value as a form of currency.

WI-FI INVENTOR WAS A WOMAN

Although we often take Wi-Fi for granted in our everyday lives, considering it as essential as electricity or water, it was originally accessible only to select organizations, including the military. During World War II, actress Hedy Lamarr and composer George Antheil developed a radio-based guidance system for torpedoes, which laid the foundation for modern technologies like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Their pioneering work earned them posthumous recognition in the Inventor’s Hall of Fame.

NEVER GIVE UP

Abraham Lincoln, widely regarded as one of America’s great presidents, faced significant setbacks before his eventual success. He endured five electoral defeats and experienced business failures. However, these obstacles did not deter him from persisting. Lincoln went on to be elected to the Illinois state legislature and later established a successful law practice alongside Stephen T. Logan. His unwavering determination and resilience eventually propelled him to the presidency.

A SELF-PORTRAIT LOVER

Frida Kahlo, an iconic painter, began her artistic journey while recovering from a tmatic incident. Unyielding in her spirit and passion, she created 143 paintings, with 55 of them being self-portraits. These self-portraits served as her personal form of self-expression, akin to contemporary selfies.

LIFE GOALS

Amelia Earhart, a renowned American aviation pioneer, encountered an airplane for the first time at the age of 10. However, it wasn’t until she turned 23 that she had the opportunity to fly in one. During her transatlantic flight, upon landing in Ireland, a farmer found it hard to believe that she was American due to her remarkable achievement. Earhart is celebrated for her relentless pursuit of her life goals, despite facing numerous challenges along the way.

SUBMARINES ARE BOATS

Naval tradition designates submarines as boats, regardless of their size. Additionally, early submarines primarily relied on gas or petrol for fuel but eventually transitioned to diesel, which offered greater safety due to its reduced flammability and increased range.

THE WRIGHT BROTHERS

Although renowned for inventing the world’s first successful motor-powered airplane, the Wright brothers, Wilbur and Orville, flew together only once. They typically piloted the planes individually. On May 25, 1910, Orville served as the pilot, with Wilbur joining him as a passenger for a six-minute flight. This rare instance remains a significant moment in aviation history.

A GIFTED CHILD

Walt Disney developed a passion for sketching at the tender age of four. While some children exhibit early linguistic abilities, Disney displayed a remarkable talent for drawing. His artistic vision and creativity would later revolutionize the world of entertainment, creating a beloved universe for children. Disney also holds the record for the most Academy Awards won by an individual producer.

YOUNG ARTIST

Pablo Picasso’s artistic journey began at the age of 10 when he enrolled in art school. He went on to become a co-founder of the Cubist movement and pioneered constructed sculpture. Picasso’s famous works include “Guernica” and “Les Demoiselles d’Avignon.” Many of his early artworks are now housed in the Picasso Museum in Barcelona, Spain, while private collectors have made significant investments to acquire his other notable pieces.