8 Bizarre Historical Jobs

Leech Collector 

They would wade through water until bitten by leeches that were then removed & sold. Constant open wounds, blood loss & muddy conditions made them prone to infections.

 

Professional Mourner 

Chinese custom prevalent since emperor WU of Han, 156BC. They were paid to bring out emotion at funerals so relatives felt comfortable grieving.

 

Castrato 

Castrated male sopranos or contraltos who had unparalleled voices. Their limbs & ribs grew longer, giving them better lung capacity.

 

Gong Farmer 

Gong farmers had to stand, sometimes up to their necks, in human excrement. and collect it. They were only allowed to work at night & lived in designated areas.

[divider] Source: BBC, Telegrapgh.co.uk, Sciencemuseum.org, History.com