Forgotten Jobs That Shaped History

Once upon a time, human hands created wonders. I’m sure you know where this is going, right?

From a human alarm to makers of the elixir of life, these are jobs you may never have known existed but may wish were still around today.

Fez – As the world evolves, countless jobs – once vital to daily life – have faded into history.

From lamplighters brightening the streets to town criers delivering news, these forgotten professions reveal a time shaped by human effort and ingenuity.

Let’s delve into the stories of these lost trades and the legacies they left.

Alchemist

Alchemists sought to transform base metals into gold and discover the elixir of life. Their work laid the foundation for modern chemistry, but their specific goals were never achieved.

As scientific understanding grew, alchemy was replaced by empirical science.

Knocker-Up

Before alarm clocks, knocker-ups helped people wake up on time. They used long sticks to tap on bedroom windows.

This job was common in Britain during the Industrial Revolution but disappeared as affordable alarm clocks became available.

Human-Computer

Before electronic computers, human computers were used to perform complex calculations by hand. They were essential in fields like astronomy and engineering.

With the advent of digital computers, this occupation became obsolete.

Phrenologist

Phrenology was a pseudoscience popular in the 19th century that involved studying the shape and contours of the skull to determine a person’s character, personality traits, and mental abilities.

Despite its popularity, phrenology lacked scientific validity and was eventually discredited.

Advancements in neuroscience and psychology have provided a more accurate understanding of brain function, leading to the decline of phrenology as a respected practice.

Lamplighter

Lamplighters lit and extinguished street lamps each evening and morning. This job was essential before electric street lighting became widespread.

As cities adopted electric lights, the need for lamplighters vanished.

Town Crier

Town criers announced news and proclamations in public spaces, often ringing a bell to gather attention.

They served as vital sources of information before the advent of print media and modern communication methods.

With the rise of newspapers and electronic communication, this role became unnecessary.

These professions highlight how technological progress and changing societal needs can render certain jobs obsolete over time.