Good Monday afternoon, welcome to weird and true facts...Today we will learn some weird and true facts about the State of California... 1). How did California get its name?? California is named after a mythical island from Garci Rodríguez de Montalvo’s best-selling novel Las Sergas de Esplandián (The Deeds of Esplandián). 2). San Jose was California’s first state capital, followed by Vallejo and Benicia (respectively) before Sacramento was named the permanent capital in 1879. 3). California was an independent country—known as the independent California Republic—for one month in 1846. 4). The grizzly bear on California’s state flag is based on one captured by media mogul William Randolph Hearst, whom he named Monarch. 5). General Sherman, the largest tree in the world (by volume), resides in Sequoia National Park. It’s estimated to be around 2,700 years old and measures 102 feet around the base and stands at 278 ft. 6). Mount Diablo’s View: According to the California Department of Parks and Recreation, Mount Diablo State Park in the Bay Area offers the best view in the country. On clear days, you can see 40 of the state’s 58 counties, covering over 8,500 square miles of California. 7). The Hollywood Sign’s Original Purpose: The iconic Hollywood Sign was originally erected in 1923 as an advertisement for a real estate development called “Hollywoodland.” The sign was meant to promote the upscale neighborhood and attract potential buyers to the area. Over time, it became synonymous with the entertainment industry and the glamour of Hollywood itself. The “land” portion was eventually removed, leaving us with the famous Hollywood Sign we know today! 8). Golden Gate Bridge: Few structures are as emblematic of California as the Golden Gate Bridge. Completed in 1937, this 2-mile suspension bridge connects San Francisco to Marin County. Its vibrant International Orange hue stands out against the backdrop of the bay, and it’s continuously maintained to withstand the salty air’s impact. The bridge is California Historical Landmark No. 974 9). Yosemite Valley: A natural wonder that has inspired artists and adventurers alike, Yosemite Valley is home to granite monoliths like Half Dome and El Capitan. Waterfalls cascade down to join the Merced River, creating a breathtaking landscape. It’s a place where the likes of John Muir and Ansel Adams found inspiration. If you visit, consider exploring some of the 16 Easy Hikes in Yosemite. 10). Hollywood Walk of Fame: Over 10 million tourists annually flock to the Hollywood Walk of Fame to spot the stars honoring their favorite actors and musicians. With over 2,500 stars spread across 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, it’s a must-see for pop culture enthusiasts. Star maps are available, but sometimes wandering and stumbling upon your favorites is even more fun! 11). Santa Monica Pier: Thanks to its appearances in television and movies, the Santa Monica Pier is instantly recognizable. Whether you’re riding the Ferris wheel, strolling along the boardwalk, or enjoying the ocean views, this iconic landmark captures the essence of California’s coastal charm. 12). And last of all "Shake Rattle and Roll". Certainly! California is no stranger to seismic activity, and its history is marked by significant earthquakes. Here are some notable facts about earthquakes in California: Recent Earthquakes: In the past 24 hours, California has experienced 20 earthquakes with a magnitude of 1.5 or greater. Over the last week (7 days), there have been 153 earthquakes in the state. Zooming out to the past month (30 days), California recorded a total of 566 earthquakes. And over the past year, a staggering 7,317 earthquakes have occurred within its borders1. Largest Recent Earthquakes: Today: The largest earthquake today was a 2.5 magnitude tremor in Home Garden, California. This week: A 4.3 magnitude quake struck Bodfish, California. This month: The most significant event was a 5.6 magnitude earthquake near Port Orford, Oregon (not in California, but still noteworthy). This year: A 5.6 magnitude quake occurred in Ferndale, California. Recent Quakes Near California: 52 minutes ago: A 2.0 magnitude quake at a depth of 7 km near Seeley, California. 2 hours ago: A 1.8 magnitude quake at a depth of 11 km near Anza, California. 3 hours ago: A 2.1 magnitude quake at a depth of 4 km near Borrego Springs, California. And more—these are just a few examples of recent seismic activity. Historical Earthquakes: California has witnessed several major historical earthquakes, including the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake and the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. The San Andreas Fault runs through California, making it a hotspot for tectonic activity. (Source comes from https://www.bing.com/search?q=weird+and+true+facts+about+California&form) Have a great Monday...Take care and GOD bless...
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