Jobs of The Past

Ninjas, often wrapped in mystery and legend, were covert agents in ancient Japan. They specialized in espionage, sabotage, and guerrilla warfare, playing a crucial role during times of conflict. These silent warriors were masters of stealth and the art of remaining unseen. Their duties made them unique compared to the traditional samurai. Trained in the … Read more

Once upon a time, on the vast frontiers of Siberia and beyond, explorers called Promyshlenniki played a crucial role in the expansion of the Russian empire. They were free-spirited individuals, often self-employed or part of a group, who ventured into the wilderness in search of valuable resources like furs. Promyshlenniki were the pathfinders of the … Read more

In the world of ancient Scandinavia, runemasters played a vital role as specialists in creating runestones. These skilled individuals carved inscriptions on stone, often commemorating the deceased or marking significant events. Runemasters from the Viking Age, particularly in 11th-century eastern Svealand, left behind hundreds of named and anonymous runestones, showcasing their craft and influence. While … Read more

The role of a nursemaid in the past was essential for wealthy households, often responsible for the care of young children. These individuals provided support in a bustling home environment, assisting the primary caregivers. Nursemaids played an integral part in child-rearing when having multiple servants was a common practice. In today’s world, the idea of … Read more

The Pullman porters played a key role in American history, shaping the travel culture and contributing to the early civil rights movement. Serving as trusted assistants on luxurious sleeping cars, these African-American workers brought comfort to passengers across the United States. The story of these porters is not just about the services they provided, but … Read more

Walking the streets of London in the past, one might have encountered a boy with a burning torch, lighting the way for evening pedestrians. This boy was known as a link-boy, a helpful guide in an age before street lamps illuminated the city. Before gas lighting became common, link-boys played an essential role in helping … Read more

Naemyeongbu was an important system in the royal court of the Joseon Dynasty in Korea, playing a crucial role in the structure of the palace. It referred to the women of the internal court, including concubines and court ladies, who lived and worked within the royal palaces. Their lives were governed by strict rules and … Read more

In the days before electric fans and air conditioning, the punkah wallah was a crucial part of daily life for the wealthy in colonial India and parts of the American South. A punkah wallah operated a large ceiling fan, pulling a cord to create a cooling breeze in hot, humid climates. This role was more … Read more

In the streets of London during the 16th and 17th centuries, a unique role emerged amid the chaos of disease outbreaks. This role, known as the Searcher of the Dead, involved individuals examining corpses to determine causes of death. It was a crucial job, helping track and respond to the spread of illnesses. Searchers of … Read more