1) The abolition of slavery in the United States was officially proclaimed with the ratification of the 13th Amendment to the Constitution in 1865.

2) The Sydney Opera House, situated in Sydney, Australia, is an iconic architectural masterpiece and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its unique design, resembling sailboats or shells, has made it one of the most recognized and photographed landmarks in the world.

3) The shortest scheduled commercial flight lasts just 1.7 miles and connects two Scottish islands, Westray and Papa Westray.

4) The Tour de France, first held in 1903, is one of the most prestigious and grueling cycling races, covering over 3,500 kilometers (2,200 miles) in three weeks.