The Pork-Sticated Stand-Off of 1859

On June 15, 1859, the world's most unnecessary military conflict officially began: The Pig War. It all started on San Juan Island when an American farmer named Lyman Cutlar spotted a large black pig eating his prized potatoes. Instead of a polite 'shoo,' Cutlar opted for a more permanent solution and shot the intruder. Unfortunately, the pig belonged to the British Hudson's Bay Company. When the British threatened to arrest him, the U.S. Army sent in the troops. Before long, 461 Americans with cannons were facing off against five British warships and over 2,000 men. For weeks, the two nations teetered on the brink of war, with orders to 'not fire unless fired upon.' The result? A years-long standoff where the only casualty was the original potato-loving pig. It is a hilarious reminder that history is often dictated by breakfast sides.