January 19 is Popcorn Day.
Human beings have been enjoying popcorn for thousands of years. Archaeologists have found evidence of popcorn in Mexico dating back to approximately 3,600 BC.
Inside a kernel of popcorn is what is known as the endosperm, which is about 20% water. When heated, the hull of the kernel can’t hold the overheating interior, and it bursts forth in a large fluffy mass that can be 20 to 50 times the size of the original kernel!
There are hundreds of toppings that people enjoy on their popcorn, so have some today with your favorite!
Today in history: January 19 The Iranian Hostage Crisis draws to an end.
On November 4, 1979, demonstrators outside the American embassy in Tehran forced their way into the embassy and seized hostages, demanding a return of deposed Shah Reza Pahlavi for trial and execution, various apologies, and for Iranian assets to be unfrozen.
For 444 days, the revolutionaries held 52 American diplomats and civilians hostage. Finally on January 19, 1981 negotiations closed with the US and revolutionary Iranians signing an agreement securing the release of the hostages. The next day, moments after President Ronald Reagan completed the oath of office during his first inauguration, the hostages were released.
Weird fact: It’s Snowing in Miami
On this date in 1977, snow fell in Miami for the only time in recorded history. A brutally cold weather pattern known as the Cold Wave of 1977 had most of the nation in its grip, and it spilled far enough south to envelop the entire state of Florida in below-freezing temperatures.
Miami saw a record low of 25° and snowfall accumulated less than an inch. However, infrastructure throughout the state was damaged as water pipes burst and electrical systems failed. The state’s agriculture industry saw many of their crops wiped out, with over 95% of vegetable crops and 35% of citrus crops being lost. Overall, the freeze caused over 2 billion 1977 dollars in damage. President Jimmy Carter declared 35 counties as disaster areas.
