If you think that modern people often behave unreasonably and do something unusual, you should definitely do a better study of comparatively recent history. It turns out that our ancestors sometimes behaved even more strangely, and used really dangerous things. However, their actions were legal. At least for that time. We have prepared a summary of unusual things that were considered quite normal in the past.
Cocaine treatment
Until 100 years ago, no one considered cocaine to be a harmful substance. Instead, it was sold over-the-counter in pharmacies to treat coughs and toothaches. Cocaine has also been recommended as a sedative for children. And, as with other pharmaceuticals, it was widely advertised.
Sending children by mail
This may sound like a joke, but in the early twentieth century, Americans could send their children by mail, and it was perfectly legal. If the weight of the baby did not exceed the standard parcel, mailing it cost no more than 15 cents. Thus, “caring” parents saved money by sending their children to stay with relatives.
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Cages for children
In the 1930s, baby wire cages were very common among British families. Inside these dangerous structures suspended outside the window, the children could breathe fresh air while their mothers were busy doing household chores. Incredibly, the cells were considered quite safe. I wonder what the parents of those times were thinking?
Hermit in the garden
Wealthy people are known to have their own quirks. However, in the past, their obsessions have brought suffering to other people. For example, in the 18th century it was fashionable to have your own hermit who lived in a garden in an artificial grotto. Hermits were not allowed to wash, cut their hair, or cut their nails. The owners have always boasted to the guests of the "living decorations" of their garden, and were even proud of them.
Questionable treatments
Not so long ago, doctors had no idea about disinfection and also used strange methods of treatment: bloodletting as a remedy for all diseases, cutting out the tongue against stuttering, as well as electroshock treatment and lobotomy. Even the most successful doctors of the time, such as orthopedic surgeon Lewis Sayre (pictured with a patient), performed many fatal surgeries.
Radioactive toys
In the 1950s, radiation was considered quite safe. Atomic toys such as the mini lab pictured here were very popular. The experimental kit included real polonium and uranium, albeit in small quantities.
Human zoos
Human zoos aimed to prove Darwin's theory in humans from Asia and Africa. Such shameful entertainment has existed for many years and remained popular even in the middle of the 20th century.
"Entertaining excursions" to psychiatric hospitals
In the past, patients in psychiatric hospitals were treated badly: for example, staff rarely fed them, although relatives paid for their accommodation. But this was not enough for the owners of the establishments, so they organized a small business: anyone who wanted for a certain amount could come to the hospital to look at the poor people and even hit them with a stick.
Collecting body parts
Only crazy people can store human body parts as trophies, right? But in the past, such a hobby was common and did not disgust anyone. Almost all respectable gentlemen had their own pathology rooms at home. Even the soldiers took home the skull of their enemy. This photo shows an American sailor from World War II bringing home the skull of a Japanese soldier.
Smoking during pregnancy by prescription
Today, doctors strictly forbid expectant mothers to smoke. However, 70 years ago, American doctors recommended that pregnant women smoke to relieve constipation. In addition, women in childbirth were also not prohibited from smoking in the hospital. It’s scary to imagine what our life would turn into if doctors still held such views.
Anna Pismenna