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The shortest recorded war lasted less than an hour

The Anglo-Zanzibar War on August 27, 1896, is commonly recorded as lasting between 38 and 45 minutes.

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Historic architecture lit by warm afternoon light

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The conflict began after an ultimatum expired and British ships opened fire on the palace in Zanzibar. The palace flag was lowered shortly afterward, ending organized resistance.

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The Great Wall is a network, not one wall

The Great Wall of China is a system of fortifications built and rebuilt across different regions and dynasties.

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Art was once an Olympic competition

The modern Olympic Games awarded medals for works inspired by sport from 1912 through 1948.

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An ancient vending machine dispensed holy water

Hero of Alexandria described a coin-operated device that released a measured amount of holy water nearly 2,000 years ago.

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