Ten Strange Things Women Did in History

Throughout history, women have achieved remarkable feats and broken societal norms. Here are ten strange things women did in history that may surprise you:
The first woman to run for president was Victoria Woodhull, who ran in 1872. Woodhull was a suffragette and activist who ran on a platform that included women's suffrage, free love, and universal suffrage. Despite her groundbreaking campaign, Woodhull did not receive any electoral votes and was not inaugurated.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, women in Europe and the United States used arsenic-based cosmetics to achieve a pale, porcelain-like complexion. The dangerous practice, known as "painting," could lead to arsenic poisoning, scarring, and even death.

In ancient Rome, wealthy women wore lead-based makeup to achieve a pale, white complexion. The practice, which was considered fashionable and desirable, could lead to lead poisoning and neurological problems.
In the 19th century, women in Europe and the United States wore "waist-shrinking" corsets to achieve a narrow waist. The corsets, which were made of steel and other rigid materials, were so tight that they could cause breathing problems, fainting, and organ damage.
In the early 20th century, women in the United States and Europe practiced "foot binding" to achieve small, dainty feet. The practice, which was considered attractive and desirable, involved tightly binding the feet of young girls to prevent them from growing. The practice could lead to deformities, difficulty walking, and other health problems.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, women in Europe and the United States wore "mourning clothes" to signify that they were grieving the loss of a loved one. The clothing, which was often black and made of heavy fabrics, was worn for extended periods of time and could be uncomfortable and restrictive.
In the early 20th century, women in Europe and the United States practiced "hair raising," a trend in which women used a variety of methods to achieve high hairstyles. The trend, which was popular in the 1920s, could involve the use of hairpieces, combs, and even wire to achieve the desired look.

Ten Strange Things Women Did in History