Fascinating Questions on History and Inventions

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around historical questions related to discoveries, inventions, and notable figures in history. Participants explore various topics including the discovery of blood circulation, the first heart transplantation, the invention of scissors, the origin of the word "assassination," heliocentrism, and other historical anecdotes.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Historical

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that William Harvey discovered blood circulation, while others mention Galen.
  • Dr. Barnard is identified by some as the first to perform a heart transplantation.
  • Copernicus is proposed as the inventor of heliocentrism, but Aristarchus of Samos is also mentioned as a possible earlier figure.
  • There is a claim that Shakespeare coined the term "assassination," while others discuss its possible etymology related to the Hashashin sect.
  • Participants debate who invented scissors, with one suggesting Leonardo da Vinci.
  • Hitler is mentioned in connection with the Volkswagen, but participants clarify that he was not an engineer.
  • Albert Einstein is proposed as the individual who declined the presidency of Israel, with some uncertainty about the timeline of this event.
  • Coca-Cola's original use is discussed, with one participant stating it was originally mouthwash.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a mix of agreement and disagreement on various historical claims, with multiple competing views on several questions. The discussion remains unresolved on many points, particularly regarding the origins of certain terms and the contributions of historical figures.

Contextual Notes

Some claims are based on incomplete information or assumptions, and there are unresolved details regarding the timeline of events and the definitions of terms discussed.

  • #31
meteor said:
5) Aristarchus of Samos. Of the ancient greek school

Aarrgh! Couldn't get that name out right, no matter how hard I tried. Arcturus, Hectarchus, geez, tried about every combination I could think of and couldn't remember his name.
 
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  • #32
Scissors (as we know them) have been around for a couple of thousand years. Long before Da Vinci.
 
  • #33
Adam said:
Scissors (as we know them) have been around for a couple of thousand years. Long before Da Vinci.

you again :biggrin:

No, no, you are wrong
 
  • #34
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  • #35
Adam, i know this

i was referring to scissors as WE know them. Not just some object to cut things
 
  • #36
Two blades joined at a pivot between the grips and the cutting surfaces, yes. They've been around for millennia.