Guinness World Records

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Kobayashi Takeru, Japanese competitive eater 2

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Guinness World Records is a reference book published annually, listing world records both of human achievements and the extremes of the natural world. The book itself holds a world record, as the best-selling copyrighted series of all-time. It also serves as a popular source of trivia and entertainment, with its wide range of categories including sports, body extremities, natural phenomena, and beyond.

History

The idea for the book originated in 1951 when Sir Hugh Beaver, the managing director of the Guinness Brewery, attended a shooting party in County Wexford, Ireland. After missing a shot at a golden plover, he became involved in an argument over which was the fastest game bird in Europe, the golden plover or the red grouse. Realizing that it was impossible to find an answer using reference books, Beaver thought that a book supplying answers to this type of question might prove successful.

The first edition of the Guinness Book of Records was bound on August 27, 1955, and became a UK bestseller by Christmas. It was compiled by Norris and Ross McWhirter in Fleet Street, London. The McWhirter twins continued to compile the book for several decades and were known for their rigorous verification processes.

Content and Categories

The book covers a wide range of categories, from the natural world to human achievements. Categories include but are not limited to:

• Extreme sports
• Human body (e.g., tallest, shortest, heaviest, lightest people)
• Natural world (e.g., longest rivers, tallest mountains)
• Collections and collectors
• Food and drink
• Technology and engineering
• Entertainment and the arts

Each record entry provides a detailed description of the achievement, along with the name of the record holder, the date and location of the record, and any relevant details about the attempt or achievement.

Verification Process

The verification process for a Guinness World Record is rigorous. Applicants must submit evidence of their record attempt, which may include witness statements, photographic or video evidence, and, in some cases, verification by an official adjudicator. The process ensures that all records are verifiable, measurable, and breakable.

Cultural Impact

Guinness World Records has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring people worldwide to challenge themselves and aim for extraordinary achievements. It has also spawned a television series, video games, and museums that showcase record-breaking facts and feats.

Criticism and Controversy

Despite its popularity, Guinness World Records has faced criticism over the years. Some argue that it encourages dangerous stunts, while others have raised concerns about the relevance and trivial nature of some records. However, the organization maintains that it does not accept records that could cause potential harm or are not in the best interest of the community.

Conclusion

Guinness World Records continues to captivate the imagination of people around the globe, celebrating human potential and the wonders of the natural world. Its legacy as a comprehensive and authoritative source of world records is unmatched, making it a staple of bookshelves and a symbol of human curiosity and achievement.

Guinness World Records Resources
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