Top 15 weird historical cultures around the world that you may not know
These cultures have left their mark on history and have helped to shape the world we live in today.
Throughout human history, there have been many fascinating and sometimes bizarre cultures that have captured the imagination of people all over the world.
From the mummies of ancient Egypt to the headhunting tribes of Borneo, these cultures have left their mark on history and have helped to shape the world we live in today.
In this article, we will take a look at some of the most interesting and strange historical cultures from around the world, including foot binding in China, the Thugee cult in India, and the Viking berserkers.
By exploring these cultures, we can gain a deeper understanding of the diversity of human experience and the many ways in which people have expressed themselves throughout history.
- Mummies of Ancient Egypt:
In ancient Egypt, mummification was a common practice used to preserve the bodies of pharaohs, their families, and other wealthy individuals. The process involved removing the internal organs, drying the body with natron, and wrapping it in cloth. These mummies were believed to have supernatural powers and were often worshipped.
2. Headhunting in Borneo:
In Borneo, a practice called headhunting was once common among certain tribes. This involved taking the heads of enemies as trophies, with the belief that the head contained the soul and power of the person. The practice was eventually banned by colonial powers.
3. Self-Mutilation in the Name of Beauty:
In ancient China, foot binding was a practice where young girls’ feet were bound tightly to create a small, delicate foot, which was considered a symbol of beauty and social status. This caused immense pain and often resulted in lifelong disability.
4. The Thugee Cult in India:
The Thugee cult was a secret society of robbers and murderers who worshipped the goddess Kali. They believed that they were doing her bidding by killing travelers and stealing their possessions. The cult was eventually suppressed by the British.
5. Viking Berserkers:
The Vikings had a group of warriors known as the berserkers who were known for their fierce fighting abilities and were believed to be possessed by the spirits of animals. They would go into a trance-like state and fight with incredible strength and endurance.
6. Witch Hunts:
In Europe and North America during the 16th and 17th centuries, witch hunts were a common occurrence. Thousands of people, mostly women, were accused of witchcraft and were tortured and executed.
7. The Thirst for Gold in the New World:
During the 16th century, the Spanish conquistadors who came to the New World were often more interested in gold than in exploration. They exploited and enslaved the native population in their quest for riches.
8.Samurai Culture:
In feudal Japan, the samurai were a class of warriors who lived by a strict code of honor known as bushido. They believed that death was preferable to dishonor and would commit ritual suicide, known as seppuku, to atone for their mistakes.
9. The Maya Civilization:
The Maya civilization, which flourished in Central America from about 2000 BCE to 1500 CE, had a complex and fascinating culture. They built impressive stone cities and pyramids, had a sophisticated system of writing, and practiced rituals involving bloodletting and human sacrifice.
10. The Inca Empire:
The Inca Empire, which existed in South America from the 13th to the 16th century, had a complex society with a unique system of government and a sophisticated infrastructure that included roads, aqueducts, and agricultural terraces. The Incas also practiced mummification and human sacrifice, and their religion was based on the worship of nature and the sun.
11. The Aztecs:
The Aztecs, who ruled much of Mexico in the 14th to 16th centuries, had a complex society that included a strict social hierarchy and a sophisticated system of education. They also practiced human sacrifice, believing that it was necessary to appease the gods.
12. The Celts:
The Celts were a group of people who lived in Europe from about 1200 BCE to 400 CE. They had a complex society with a rich mythology and religion, and their warriors were known for their ferocity in battle. The Celts also practiced human sacrifice and had a unique system of art and ornamentation.
13. The Maori:
The Maori are the indigenous people of New Zealand, and their culture is rich and complex. They have a unique system of art and design, including intricate tattoos and carvings, and their religion is based on the worship of ancestral spirits. The Maori also have a rich tradition of storytelling and song.
14. The Huns:
The Huns were a group of nomadic warriors who lived in central Asia from about the 4th to the 6th century CE. They were known for their fierce and brutal tactics in battle, and they were feared throughout Europe and Asia. The Huns also had a unique system of writing and a rich mythology.
15. The Zulu:
The Zulu are a group of people who live in southern Africa, and their culture is rich and complex. They have a unique system of music and dance, and their warriors were known for their bravery in battle. The Zulu also have a rich tradition of storytelling and a unique system of art and ornamentation.
In conclusion, the weird historical cultures around the world are a testament to the diversity and complexity of human societies throughout history.
From the brutal practices of headhunting and human sacrifice, to the refined arts of foot binding and samurai culture, these cultures have helped to shape our understanding of what it means to be human.
While some of these practices may seem shocking or even barbaric by modern standards, they offer valuable insights into the beliefs, values, and experiences of people from different times and places.
By learning about these cultures, we can gain a greater appreciation for the richness and complexity of human history, and gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.
