The 'Guinness Book of World Records' was first published in 1955.
"Guinness World Records," previously "The Guinness Book of World Records," is a popular book that details accounts of physical strength, appearance, skills, scientific discoveries and accomplishments, sports records and many other feats. The book is annually published with updated records and information, new records and information about achieve and apply for a Guinness world record. Originally published in the 1950s, "Guinness World Records" has dramatically expanded since its early days.
History
"Guinness World Records" started over an argument during a hunting party about which bird was the fastest bird in Europe; the argument could not be resolved using reference books about birds, and so the managing director of the Guinness Brewery decided to make a reliable book that held answers to questions regarding records. The book was first published in 1955. It quickly became a best-seller, and a new edition has been published each year since that time.
Types
According to the "Guinness World Records" website, there are a number of categories for records. They include records involving the human body, such as the largest number of tattoos and feats like sword swallowing; records in the natural world; scientific and technological records; feats involving the arts and media; travel and transportation records; and records in sports and games. Guinness also has a "Gamer's Edition," which is devoted entirely to online and video game scores and achievements.
Setting Records
Individuals who set records receive in "Guinness World Records," an entry that normally includes a photograph and specific information about the record set. For example, the individual who set the record for the fastest time to eat a 12-inch pizza accomplished the goal in one minute and 45.37 seconds, according to the "Guinness World Records" website. To be considered for an entry in "Guinness World Records," an application must be sent in and approved by a committee. After that, the committee must observe and ratify the record attempt before it can be included in the book.
Breaking a Record
Individuals who want to break an existing record must also apply for and demonstrate their abilities before a panel or representative of "Guinness World Records." A number of records have been broken. Sports records are frequently challenged by teams or individuals who want to outperform existing records. Many editions of "Guinness World Records" include information on past records as well as the current record.
Considerations
"Guinness World Records" has a series of museums in conjunction with Ripley, of "Ripley's Believe it or Not!" The museums use interactive technology, video, photographs and reconstructions of successful record attempts to allow people to experience the action of the records. Additionally, trivia and activities are available for "Guinness World Records" fans at these museums, which can be found in Florida, New York, California and several other states.
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