The Guinness Book of Records was first published in Great Britain as a solution to the frequent arguments over records in pubs surrounding the country. Sir Hugh Beaver, who was the managing director of the Guinness Brewery, conceived the idea after he was involved in a debate about the fastest game bird in Europe while on a hunting trip. Realizing that there was no authoritative book to settle such disputes, he decided to create a comprehensive reference filled with records and facts covering a diverse range of categories.

The book was compiled by Beaver in collaboration with twin brothers Norris and Ross McWhirter, who were known for their extensive knowledge of trivia and records. Its first edition featured a multitude of records in sports, human achievements, and natural phenomena, attracting significant attention from the public. Remarkably, the book was not only designed as a marketing tool for Guinness beer but went on to capture the imagination of readers worldwide.

Following its initial release, the Guinness Book of Records quickly rose to prominence, becoming a cultural phenomenon. The idea of documenting world records struck a chord with people, and it encouraged a spirit of competition and curiosity. The unique and often bizarre records showcased in the book led to a surge in interest for attempting to set new records. Over the years, the book has continued to evolve, expanding its categories and embracing new trends, firmly establishing itself as an authoritative global source for record-keeping.