10 Shocking Things People Thought Were Normal Until Now
In this article, we will delve into 10 shocking things that people once considered normal but are considered outrageous by today’s standards. From bizarre beauty practices to disturbing medical treatments, these historical norms will leave you scratching your head in disbelief. Let’s explore these strange traditions and customs that were once widely accepted.
1. Foot Binding in Ancient China
Foot binding was a traditional practice in ancient China where young girls had their feet tightly bound to prevent further growth. This was done to achieve the desired "lotus feet" appearance, which was considered a mark of beauty and status. However, this painful process often led to disabilities and lifelong deformities for many women.
2. Bloodletting as a Medical Treatment
In the past, bloodletting was a common medical treatment used to balance the body’s humors and remove "bad blood." Doctors believed that by draining blood from a patient, they could cure various illnesses. Unfortunately, this practice often led to severe infections and even death.
FAQ: Was bloodletting effective as a medical treatment?
While some patients may have felt temporary relief after bloodletting, there is little scientific evidence to support its effectiveness as a medical treatment. In fact, this practice was more harmful than beneficial in most cases.
3. Corsets for Extreme Waist Training
Corsets were popular in the 19th century as a fashion statement and a way to achieve an hourglass figure. Women would wear tight corsets for long periods, often causing damage to their internal organs and ribs. The obsession with tiny waists led to severe health problems for many women.
4. Thalidomide as a Morning Sickness Drug
Thalidomide was once prescribed to pregnant women as a morning sickness drug in the 1950s and 1960s. However, it was later discovered that thalidomide caused severe birth defects in babies, such as limb deformities. This tragic mistake led to stricter regulations on pharmaceutical drugs.
FAQ: Why was thalidomide prescribed to pregnant women?
Thalidomide was originally marketed as a safe and effective drug for morning sickness, but its devastating side effects were not discovered until after many women had already taken it during pregnancy.
5. Smoking Cigarettes as a Health Benefit
In the early 20th century, cigarettes were marketed as a health benefit and even endorsed by doctors. Smoking was promoted as a way to relieve stress and improve digestion. It wasn’t until years later that the harmful effects of smoking on health became widely known.
6. Lead-Based Makeup for Pale Skin
In ancient times, lead-based makeup was used to achieve a pale complexion, which was considered a sign of beauty and nobility. However, lead poisoning from these cosmetics resulted in severe health issues, including organ damage and death.
7. Child Labor in Industrial Revolution
During the Industrial Revolution, children as young as five years old were forced to work long hours in dangerous conditions. Many children suffered injuries, illness, and even death due to the harsh working conditions. It wasn’t until labor laws were enacted that child labor was eventually abolished.
FAQ: Why were children used as labor during the Industrial Revolution?
Children were often employed in factories because they could be paid less than adult workers and were seen as more manageable. The exploitation of child labor was a result of the demand for cheap labor during the rapid industrialization of the time.
8. Eugenics Movement for "Better" Humans
The eugenics movement aimed to improve the human race by promoting selective breeding and sterilization of "undesirable" individuals. This discriminatory practice led to the forced sterilization of thousands of people, including those with disabilities and mental illnesses.
9. Public Executions as Entertainment
Public executions were once a form of entertainment in many cultures, drawing large crowds to witness the gruesome spectacle. Executions were often held in town squares or public arenas, where the condemned would be put to death in various ways, such as hanging, beheading, or burning.
FAQ: Why were public executions considered entertainment?
Public executions were seen as a form of punishment and deterrence for criminals, but they also served as a source of entertainment for the masses. The gruesome nature of these events attracted curious onlookers looking for excitement and spectacle.
10. Opium Use in Victorian Society
Opium was widely used in Victorian society as a recreational drug and pain reliever. It was commonly found in various products, such as laudanum and tinctures, and was consumed for its euphoric effects. However, opium addiction became a widespread problem, leading to social and health issues.
Conclusion
As we reflect on these shocking practices that were once considered normal, it serves as a reminder of how societal norms and values can evolve over time. What may have been acceptable in the past can now be viewed with horror and disbelief. By learning from history, we can better understand the impact of our actions on future generations and strive to create a more just and compassionate society.