During the uncertain times which the world is currently going through as a result of the worldwide coronavirus pandemic, you may be well aware of some of the essential workers, such as doctors, nurses, pharmacists and couriers who continue to go to work. Despite the dangers which are associated with working during the coronavirus pandemic. To discover some of the most dangerous jobs in history, simply continue reading. As you may be surprised at some of the jobs which pop up on the list below.
Ancient chariot racers:
Greek and Roman chariot racers raced light weight, two wheel rigs which were pulled along by race horses. High speed collisions were a common occurrence and were incredibly dangerous due to the fact that chariot racers would race with their hands tied to their horses’ reins. Which meant that if a chariot racer fell from their rig, they’d be pulled along the ground at high speed.
Leech collectors:
One of the most dangerous jobs in history was being a professional leech collector. In the 1800s doctors paid leech collectors to wade into leech infested water in order to attract leeches to their bare legs. Which they’d then be able to sell to doctors, who would use blood sucking leeches in order to try and cure a wide variety of illnesses. Being a leech collector was a dangerous job as leech bites could lead to infections which could cause diarrhoea as well as infections such as septicaemia and meningitis.
Body collectors during the bubonic plague:
No matter how frustrated you may become with your own job, be glad that you weren’t a body collector during the bubonic plague. During the mid 1300s body collectors were paid to collect all the bodies of the individuals who had died from the bubonic plague, which took Europe by storm.
Unfortunately body collectors could contract the bubonic plague themselves, simply by touching the clothing or the belongings of those who were infected. After transporting countless dead bodies to local cemeteries, many body collectors died as a result of contracting the bubonic plague.
Hat makers:
You may be surprised that being a hat maker could be so dangerous. In the 1700s and the 1800s hat makers would use mercury in order to attach animal fur to their hats. As you may know mercury is an extremely dangerous substance. Worse yet when mercury is inhaled it goes straight to the brain. Some of the ailments which early hat makers would develop include brain damage, epilepsy and paranoia.
Medieval kings and queens:
While you might have assumed that being a medieval king or queen may have guaranteed a relatively safe life. Especially compared to the average subject of a medieval kingdom. However, between 600 and 1800 AD European monarchs were around 700 more times likely to be killed, than their subjects. Due to the fact that their rivals would constantly plot to take their thrones.
So during a period of global uncertainty, it’s well worth doing your part to support and show your appreciation for all of the essential workers, who put their own safety aside for the good of their country.
