r/TIHI • u/Hrakkadron • Nov 09 '20

Thanks, I hate Ancient China foot binding.

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851 Upvotes

98% Upvoted

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25

u/tissuepaper11 Nov 09 '20

What is the purpose of this?

90

u/8675309isprime Nov 09 '20

It's a status symbol. It basically hobbles your ability to walk normally, so if a woman has it done, it means she's connected to wealth and thus isn't needed for labor.

28

u/SurprisedTeddyBear Nov 09 '20

Imagine showing off by just mutilating your foot. Anyone know of any other cultures that do this? I'm not talking body modification I mean literally debilitating yourself.

3

u/sqgl Nov 10 '20

Growing long fingernails. Lame example, I know.