In the early 19th century, children and women took on the demanding role of “hurrying” in coal mines. These hurriers, also known as coal drawers or coal thrusters, were responsible for transporting heavy baskets of coal. Hurrying was a tough and dangerous job, highlighting the challenging conditions of the past. This obsolete occupation involved pulling … Read more
The fogd is a job title not familiar to most people today, but it played a significant role in the past. This role was akin to a bailiff or tax collector in certain regions. Historically, these individuals were responsible for collecting taxes and ensuring local ordinances were followed. They often acted as intermediaries between the … Read more
Before refrigerators became a household staple, icemen played a crucial role in keeping food fresh. They delivered blocks of ice to homes, allowing people to use iceboxes to preserve their perishable goods. From the late 19th century to the mid-20th century, icemen were a common sight in towns and cities. They traveled from house to … Read more
Stepping back into history, one finds the intriguing role of the footman, a position that paints a picture of the grand households of the past. This job, now largely obsolete, was key to the daily operations of wealthy homes, where footmen carried out a variety of tasks. A footman was primarily employed to wait at … Read more
In the past, an “Impi” was not just a job but an essential part of the Zulu military tradition. These warriors were organized in regiments and played a crucial role during times of conflict. The term “Impi” signifies a group of warriors, reflecting its historical importance as a driving force in battles. Their disciplined formations … Read more
The term “Francs-tireurs” may not be widely recognized today, but these “free shooters” played a significant role in military history. Originating in the Franco-Prussian War, they were made up of irregular military fighters who resisted enemy forces in guerrilla-style attacks. They later became a symbol of resistance during World War II, being part of movements … Read more
In the realm of historical occupations, the Instigator Regni holds a fascinating spot. This role, known in Latin as Instigator Regni and in Polish as Instygator Koronny, was a significant legal office in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. The Instigator Regni was responsible for prosecuting crimes against the state and offenses against the king, making it a … Read more
The Cossacks, often remembered today as part of history, played a vital role in Eastern Europe for centuries. Emerging around the 15th century along the Dnieper River, these communities were known for their military skills and democratic societies. They lived fiercely independent lives, often serving as warriors to protect the borders of different nations. Cossacks … Read more
In the world of historical occupations, the term Freischar might not ring a bell for many. These units were groups of volunteer soldiers who fought without formal authorization during times of war. They often acted based on the motivations of political parties or individuals, not under official military command. Freischar units often operated outside the … Read more
In the vast tapestry of history, many professions have faded with time. One such intriguing occupation is that of the investigating censor, a vital role in imperial China’s civil bureaucracy. These officials were responsible for monitoring government officials, conducting investigations, and even impeaching those found guilty of misconduct. The role of investigating censors existed from … Read more