10 Cultural Practices That Were Surprisingly Progressive for Their Time

Culture shapes society, and sometimes, what we consider to be progressive or modern thinking has roots in historical practices. In this article, we will explore ten cultural practices from different periods and regions that may have seemed radical for their time but have evolved into what we recognize today as progressive ideals.

1. Ancient Greek Democracy

The ancient Greeks are often credited with laying the foundation for democracy. In Athens, a system was developed that allowed citizens to participate directly in governance. While it was limited to free men born in Athens and excluded women, enslaved people, and foreigners, it was a pioneering step towards the idea of civic participation. Citizens could vote on legislation and important governmental decisions, which was a significant shift from monarchies and oligarchies that dominated history before this period.

2. The Code of Hammurabi

Dating back to around 1754 BC, the Code of Hammurabi is one of the oldest deciphered writings of significant length in the world. It is a Babylonian legal text inscribed on a stone stele that established standards for commercial interactions and set penalties for those in violation of the law. The principles of justice and equality before the law were revolutionary, as they outlined specific rights for individuals, including protections for women and children—something quite progressive for its era.

Mughal Empire’s Religious Tolerance

During the reign of Akbar the Great in the 16th century, the Mughal Empire adopted a policy of religious tolerance. Akbar sought to bridge the gap between Muslim and Hindu subjects by abolishing the jizya tax and creating the Divine Faith, which promoted a syncretic blend of various religious beliefs, including elements of Islam, Hinduism, and Christianity. This practice of fostering interfaith dialogue and respect was remarkably progressive in an age marked by sectarian strife.

The Suffragette Movement

As women in the 19th and early 20th centuries started advocating for their right to vote, the suffragette movement emerged as a symbol of progress. These women broke traditional gender roles by demanding legal recognition and political power—an unprecedented shift in a society that had long relegated them to domestic spheres. Their tireless efforts culminated in major changes across the globe, with women gaining the right to vote, making it one of the most significant steps toward gender equality.

Indigenous Cultural Practices of Sustainability

Long before the contemporary sustainability movement, many Indigenous cultures practiced land stewardship and sustainability as a way of life. For example, the Native American practice of controlled burns in the forests promoted biodiversity and reduced the risk of uncontrolled wildfires. Their holistic approach to nature, which emphasized harmony and balance, reflects a progressive understanding of ecological balance that we are only now beginning to appreciate fully.

The Renaissance and Humanism

The Renaissance, spanning from the 14th to the 17th century, was marked by a resurgence of interest in humanism. This philosophical movement emphasized individual potential and the value of human beings, moving away from a purely religious focus on the afterlife. Artists and thinkers like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo celebrated human achievement and the beauty of the natural world, laying the groundwork for modern philosophies that prioritize human rights, scientific inquiry, and personal freedom.

The LGBTQ+ Rights Movement

Although the struggle for LGBTQ+ rights is ongoing, early movements for homosexual rights date back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Activists like Magnus Hirschfeld in Germany laid foundations for what would become the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement. They advocated for the decriminalization of homosexuality and opened early dialogues about sexual orientation and gender identity that were profoundly progressive for their era.

Gender Fluidity in Pre-Columbian Cultures

Many Indigenous societies in the Americas recognized gender fluidity and honored two-spirit people as a distinct gender category. These individuals often held respected positions within their communities, serving vital roles in spiritual and social functions. This understanding of gender as a spectrum, rather than a binary, demonstrates a remarkably progressive view that challenges our contemporary understanding.

The Abolition of Slavery

While the abolition of slavery in the 19th century is often viewed through the lens of humanitarian efforts, the movement was radical for its time. It challenged deeply entrenched social structures and economic systems that benefited from slavery. Figures like Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman were pivotal in fighting for emancipation, showing immense bravery and vision for a world without bondage. Their legacy highlights the progressive notion of freedom and equality that continues to inspire social movements today.

Conclusion

While society continuously evolves, examining historical practices offers insight into how cultural norms can shift dramatically over time. From ancient democracies to modern rights movements, the journey toward progress is paved with remarkable ideas and practices that challenged societal norms. Understanding these progressive roots can inspire us as we continue advocating for change in our own time. As we celebrate cultural evolution, we must remember the lessons of history and strive for a future where inclusivity and equity prevail.