Overview of Guinness World Records
Guinness World Records was first published in 1955, and since then, it has grown into one of the most recognized and beloved reference books worldwide. The purpose of the book was to settle pub disputes over records and achievements, and it has since evolved into a comprehensive compendium of world records that spans a wide range of categories.
Each edition of the book contains records that have been verified and validated through strict guidelines, ensuring that the information presented is accurate and credible. The 2001 edition continued this tradition, featuring an array of categories that appealed to a diverse audience.
Notable Records in 2001
The 2001 edition of Guinness World Records presented a variety of awe-inspiring records. Here are some of the most notable records featured in that year’s publication:
Human Achievements
1. Tallest Man: The title of the tallest man in the world went to Robert Wadlow from the United States, who stood at an astounding height of 8 feet 11.1 inches (2.72 meters).
2. Longest Fingernails: Lee Redmond from the United States held the record for the longest fingernails, measuring a combined length of 28 feet 4.5 inches (8.65 meters).
3. Fastest 100m Sprint: Usain Bolt did not yet hold this record in 2001, but the fastest 100m sprint was recorded at 9.79 seconds by Donovan Bailey of Canada, a record that would eventually be broken by Bolt years later.
Animal Kingdom Records
1. Largest Dog: The record for the largest dog was held by a Great Dane named Zeus, who measured an impressive 44 inches (111.8 cm) tall at the shoulder.
2. Fastest Land Animal: The cheetah retained its title as the fastest land animal, capable of reaching speeds up to 70 miles per hour (113 km/h).
3. Oldest Living Cat: Creme Puff, a cat from Austin, Texas, lived to be 38 years and 3 days old, making her the oldest recorded cat in history.
Technology and Science Records
1. Largest Computer Network: In 2001, the largest computer network was the Internet, which continued to grow exponentially, connecting millions of users worldwide.
2. Fastest Computer: The title of the fastest supercomputer was held by the ASCI White, developed by IBM, with a processing speed of 12.3 teraflops.
3. Largest DNA Database: The largest DNA database at the time was maintained by the FBI, containing over 2 million DNA profiles.
The Cultural Impact of Guinness World Records 2001
The Guinness World Records 2001 edition not only served as an entertaining read but also had a significant cultural impact. The fascination with records contributed to a global phenomenon where individuals and groups attempted to break existing records or create new ones. This culture of record-breaking was reflected in:
Television and Media
- Record-Breaking Shows: The popularity of Guinness World Records led to the creation of television shows that featured individuals attempting to break records on camera, captivating audiences around the world.
- Documentaries: Several documentaries explored the lives of record holders, shedding light on their dedication, passion, and sometimes peculiar motivations for pursuing record-breaking feats.
Community Engagement and Events
- Record-Setting Events: Many communities organized events where individuals could attempt to break records, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community spirit.
- Charity Challenges: Record-breaking attempts were often linked to charitable causes, with participants raising funds and awareness for various issues while attempting to achieve greatness.
Criticism and Controversy
Despite its popularity, the Guinness World Records faced criticism and controversies over the years, including:
Ethical Considerations
- Safety Concerns: Some records encouraged dangerous or reckless behavior, prompting concerns regarding the safety of participants.
- Verification Process: The verification process for certain records was sometimes questioned, leading to debates about the legitimacy of some achievements.
Commercialization of Records
- Corporate Sponsorship: As Guinness World Records grew in popularity, some critics argued that the commercialization of records detracted from the authenticity of individual achievements.
Conclusion
The Guinness World Records 2001 edition captured the imagination of readers and record enthusiasts with its impressive collection of extraordinary feats. From human achievements to remarkable animal records and technological advancements, the book served as a testament to human creativity, perseverance, and ambition. The cultural impact of the 2001 edition, along with the ongoing fascination with record-breaking endeavors, ensured that Guinness World Records would continue to be a significant part of popular culture for years to come. As we reflect on the records of 2001, we are reminded of the endless possibilities that await those who dare to dream big and push the boundaries of what is possible. The legacy of Guinness World Records endures, inspiring future generations to reach for greatness and perhaps even set records of their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the most notable record book released in 2001?
The most notable record book released in 2001 was the 'Guinness World Records 2001', which featured a variety of new and updated records.
Which animal held the record for the longest ears in 2001?
In 2001, the record for the longest ears was held by a rabbit named Margherita, whose ears measured 79 cm (31 in) long.
What was the tallest building in the world according to the 2001 edition?
The tallest building in the world according to the 2001 edition was the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, standing at 452 meters (1,483 feet).
Who held the record for the fastest 100m sprint in 2001?
In 2001, the record for the fastest 100m sprint was held by Usain Bolt, who completed the distance in 9.58 seconds, although his record was officially recognized later in 2009.
What unique record did a man named Ashrita Furman hold in 2001?
Ashrita Furman held the record for having the most Guinness World Records simultaneously, with over 100 records in various categories by 2001.
Which popular video game character set a record in the 2001 edition?
In 2001, the popular video game character Mario was recognized for having the most appearances in video games, solidifying his status as a gaming icon.
What was the record for the longest fingernails in 2001?
In 2001, the record for the longest fingernails was held by Lee Redmond, whose nails measured a total of 8.65 meters (28 ft 4.5 in) in length.
Which event in 2001 highlighted the theme of global peace?
The 2001 edition highlighted the theme of global peace with records like the largest gathering of people holding hands, promoting unity and understanding across cultures.
