Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society cover image

History of Sh*t: Aztec Poo Goblins to Viking Turds

Betwixt The Sheets: The History of Sex, Scandal & Society

CHAPTER

From Buckets to Flush Toilets: The Evolution of Sanitation

This chapter traces the transformation of toilets from primitive bucket systems to John Harrington's first flushing toilet, exploring challenges like noise and water usage. It delves into the historical development of sewer systems in cities like London, the contributions of Joseph Bazalgette and Thomas Crapper, and the use of seemingly offensive words like 'turd' and 'bollocks' in older texts. The conversation also humorously discusses anecdotes like soldiers using shell casings during wartime, a story from the Battle of Talivera, and the importance of recycling human waste for sustainable practices and environmental considerations.

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