Counting Down History’s Most Ridiculous War Triggers – Crazier Than Modern Jokes

The Pig War

In 1859, a British soldier on San Juan Island in the Pacific Northwest shot an American settler’s pig for rooting through his garden. What followed was a standoff between British and American forces, with both countries sending warships and troops to the tiny island. All because of one overeating pig.

Thankfully, no human blood was shed, and cooler heads prevailed. A joint occupation agreement kept the peace until the dispute was arbitrated. The pig, unfortunately, didn’t survive — but it may be the only casualty in history to nearly start a war between two major powers.

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