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What are some interesting historical facts about popular hobbies

Sure! Here are nine interesting historical facts about popular hobbies:

**Gardening**: Did you know that gardening dates back to ancient Egypt? They cultivated plants not just for food but also for beauty, and the famous Hanging Gardens of Babylon were considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World!

**Knitting**: Knitting has been around since at least the 11th century. It started as a way to make warm clothing, but by the 16th century, it became a popular hobby among the elite in Europe, often seen as a sign of sophistication.

**Photography**: The first permanent photograph was taken in 1826 by Joseph Nicéphore Niépce. It took eight hours to expose! Fast forward to today, and photography is a beloved hobby for millions, thanks to advancements in technology.

**Birdwatching**: This hobby can trace its roots back to the Victorian era when the upper class began to take an interest in nature and conservation. They would often keep detailed journals of their sightings, which laid the groundwork for modern birdwatching.

**Stamp Collecting**: Known as philately, stamp collecting became popular in the mid-19th century after the introduction of the first adhesive postage stamp in 1840. It quickly turned into a worldwide hobby, with collectors seeking rare and unique stamps.

**Model Building**: The art of model building can be linked to shipbuilding in ancient times. In the 19th century, it became a popular hobby among men, especially with the rise of train sets and model airplanes, allowing enthusiasts to recreate their favorite scenes.

**Chess**: Chess has been played for over 1,500 years, originating in India before spreading to Persia and then to Europe. It was once considered a game for the elite, but now it's a popular pastime for people of all ages around the world.

**Reading**: While reading as a skill