1) The Renaissance period, which began in Italy in the 14th century, marked a renewed interest in art, literature, science, and philosophy.

2) The Appalachian Mountains, running along the eastern coast of the United States, are one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world.

3) The most intense cyclone ever recorded was Cyclone Tip in 1979, with a minimum central pressure of 870 millibars and maximum sustained winds of 190 miles per hour (305 kilometers per hour).

4) The Boston Celtics and the Los Angeles Lakers are the most successful teams in NBA history, with a combined total of 33 championships.