Day
1: Why do British people drive on the left side of the road? If you've ever traveled to the United Kingdom, or even watched a British movie or TV show, you may have noticed that they drive on the left side of the road, rather than the right side like in most other countries. You may have wondered why this is the case. The reason for this dates back to medieval times, when knights on horseback would travel on the left side of the road to keep their sword arm free in case they needed to defend themselves. This practice continued into the early days of the automobile, where drivers would sit on the right side of the car and steer with their right hand. Therefore, driving on the left side of the road was the most efficient way to ensure the driver had the best possible view of the road ahead. This wasn't a problem until the French Revolution in 1789, which sparked a wave of anti-British sentiment across Europe. In an act of defiance, many other countries, including France, switched to driving on the right side of the road. However, the UK decided to stick with its established practice of driving on the left. Today, driving on the left side of the road is a rarity, with only a few countries, including Japan, Australia, and South Africa, following the British example. In fact, in some countries, such as the United States and Canada, it's actually illegal to drive on the left side of the road. So, next time you visit the UK, you'll know why you're driving on the "wrong" side of the road, and you can impress your friends with your historical knowledge. Day 2: What is the world's largest desert? When you think of a desert, what comes to mind? Sandy dunes stretching as far as the eye can see? Cactus and tumbleweed? In reality, deserts can take many forms, including rocky terrain, salt flats, and even frozen tundra. But what is the world's largest desert? The answer might surprise you. Many people assume that the Sahara Desert in Africa is the largest in the world. It certainly seems like a likely contender, covering more than 3 million square miles and spanning 11 countries. However, the title of the largest desert actually goes to Antarctica, which covers a whopping
5.5 million square miles. Despite being covered in ice rather than sand, Antarctica is considered a desert because it receives very little precipitation. In fact, some parts of the continent are so dry that they haven't seen rain in over 2 million years. The frozen landscape is also incredibly harsh, with temperatures that can dip as low as -12
8.6 degrees Fahrenheit. So, the next time you think of a desert, remember that they come in all shapes and sizes. And if you want to visit the world's largest one, you'll need to pack a good coat and some warm socks. Day 3: Why do Americans celebrate Thanksgiving? For most Americans, Thanksgiving is a beloved holiday that centers around food, family, and giving thanks for our blessings. But have you ever wondered how this holiday originated? The first Thanksgiving celebration can be traced back to 1621, when English settlers in Plymouth, Massachusetts, held a feast to celebrate a successful harvest. They invited their Native American neighbors, who had taught them how to grow crops, and the two groups shared a meal of turkey, corn, and other dishes. Thanksgiving celebrations continued sporadically in various parts of the country, but it wasn't until the mid-19th century that the holiday became an annual tradition. In 1863, during the height of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday as a way to unite the country and promote gratitude and healing. Today, Thanksgiving is typically celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, and the traditional meal usually includes turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. It's also a time for families to gather together, watch football, and give thanks for one another and the blessings in their lives. So, whether you're an American who loves Thanksgiving or an international visitor curious about our traditions, now you know a little more about why we celebrate this beloved holiday each year. Day 4: What is the difference between Holland and the Netherlands? The terms "Holland" and "the Netherlands" are often used interchangeably to refer to the same place - the small, low-lying country in northwestern Europe with a reputation for cheese, tulips, and windmills. However, there is actually a difference between the two. Holland is actually just one region of the Netherlands, located on the country's western coast. It includes the cities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, as well as many of the country's top tourist attractions. Because this region was historically so influential and prosperous, the name "Holland" became synonymous with the entire country in many people's minds. The Netherlands is actually made up of 12 provinces, including Holland, and has a population of just over 17 million people. The country is known for its liberal policies, stunning architecture, and extensive network of bike paths. It's also home to the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, making it a hub of global diplomacy and justice. So, the next time you're visiting Amsterdam or admiring a field of tulips, remember that you're in Holland, a part of the fascinating and beautiful country of the Netherlands.