The Guinness Book of Records (1955 to 2000), now called Guinness World Records, lists the world’s most serious records set by human achievements, mammals, and the extremes of the natural world.
It’s a reference that has been a wonder itself. It is published yearly and used to be merely a book containing findings. Some facts documented include the world’s hairiest person alive, the world’s shortest person, etc.
I’m guessing you probably wondered how this “book” originated. Or who even hatched the idea. You will find out by the end of the post.
Origin: Guinness Book Of Records
Many articles have been written concerning how this book came about. Or who even got the idea, and how to make it reach a worldwide enterprise. The idea for the Guinness Book of Records began in the early In 1954.
That was when the then Managing Director of the Guinness Brewery, Sir Hugh, had a debate or argument about the fastest game bird in Europe while at a shooting party in County Wexford (Ireland) and failed to find an answer with any reference.
Recalling his shooting party argument, he has the idea to organise a Guinness promotion. Based on the aim to settle debates and arguments that they had in the pub.
He then invites Norris(1925—2004) and Ross McWhirter(1925—75). Who had been running a fact-finding agency in London. The twin brothers were commissioned to compile a book of facts and figures, which became the Guinness Book of Records.
How did it become the Book of Records?
After the initial research phase, their work began on writing the book of facts. This took 13 and a half 90-hour weeks, including weekends and bank holidays. Little did the McWhirters know that this small book would go on to become an all-time best seller. And no doubt one of the most recognized brands in the world.
On August 27, 1955, the first edition of “The Guinness Book of Records” was published in Great Britain, and it turned out to be a remarkable hit.
The initial objective was to share the book for free in pubs or bars to promote the Guinness brand. It, however, became so popular that the company started selling it, and it indeed became a bestseller.
The Guinness Branded franchise started as a book but has, upon recent developments, expanded its views. By including television series and using museums. The popularity has resulted in Guinness World Records becoming the primary international authority on the cataloguing and verification of a huge number of world records.
The organization employs official record adjudicators to verify the authenticity of the setting and breaking of records, and as particular individuals set records every year, Others come the next year to reset or break it. This makes it remarkably interesting.
It’s amazing how all these weird acts and traits exist in our natural world. Researchers gather from all around the globe. If you would like to know or find out more about some of these records set by individuals. Head on over to the website Guinness World Records to check out some amazing stuff.