Our ancestors love to remind us how much “better” things were back in their day. From buying a gallon of milk for five cents to wearing clothes of a higher quality, they’ll be sure to let us know that the way things operate these days is just no good!
Yet, a look through a history book might just prove that the way people lived back in the day (depending on which “day” you’re referring to) might not be all that it’s cracked up to be. In fact, some things were just downright absurd.
You’re not going to believe some of the practices that were more common all those years ago…
1. Beauty products made with radioactive ingredients: While people in modern times know better, during the early 20th century, many people believed that radiation was a good thing. It was even possible to purchase beauty products, drinks, and food that contained thorium and radium.
2. Smoking on airplanes and in public places: It’s no secret that smoking in public places, like on planes and in restaurants, is largely prohibited today. But not long ago, it was completely legal—encouraged even—to smoke on and in these locations.
3. Sleeping twice a day: During the European Middle Ages, people commonly partook in what is known as biphasic sleep. Initially, they would go to sleep from sunset up until about midnight. Then, they would rise for anywhere from two to three hours. Afterwards, they would go back to sleep until the sun came up.
4. Bloodletting to cure diseases: In modern times, people fight diseases with a series of treatments, most common medicines and antibiotics. Yet, prior to the 20th century, the most common way to treat these ailments was by bloodletting. Not surprisingly, the person being treated left in a worse state than when they arrived.
5. Utilizing bathing machines: When you go to the beach today, you’re free to walk right into the water and go for a swim. During the 18th and 19th centuries, however, this wasn’t the case. First, you frequently had to use a “bathing machine,” which would be pulled out into the water so you could take a dip without anyone seeing you swim.
6. Wearing “chopines”: It might be hard to believe, but between the 15th and 17th centuries, these uncomfortable, 20-inch-high platformed shoe-covers were in fashion. They were worn over the shoe, and their main purpose was to help the wearer avoid getting their clothes muddy.
