What has been one of the most absurd decisions ever made?

Throughout history, there have been many absurd decisions made by individuals and groups that have had significant consequences. One such decision was the decision made by Emperor Caligula of Rome to declare war on the god of the sea, Poseidon. In 40 AD, Caligula ordered his troops to march to the English Channel and gather seashells as spoils of war. He also commanded his soldiers to stab the water with their swords to show the sea who was boss. This decision not only wasted valuable time and resources, but it also showed how unhinged and erratic Caligula was.

Another absurd decision was made by the British Army during the Battle of Balaclava in the Crimean War. The Charge of the Light Brigade was a suicidal charge by British cavalry against Russian forces. Due to a communication error, the British soldiers were ordered to charge directly into a valley surrounded by Russian artillery. This resulted in the loss of hundreds of British lives and did little to impact the outcome of the battle.

Finally, one of the most infamous and absurd decisions in modern history was the decision by the German High Command to invade the Soviet Union during World War II. Despite warnings from his generals and the severe logistical challenges of the operation, Adolf Hitler insisted on the invasion, which ultimately led to Germany's defeat and the deaths of millions of people.