Many practices we consider routine have roots in history, originating from ancient traditions, superstitions, or practical needs that have evolved over centuries. Here are 22 common practices with surprising origins, each revealing a fascinating story about human culture and innovation.

Applauding to Show Appreciation

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Clapping as a form of applause dates back to ancient Roman times, when it was a formalized way for audiences to express enjoyment and approval during theatrical performances.

Shaking Hands as a Greeting

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Originating in ancient Greece as a symbol of peace, showing that neither person was carrying a weapon. Over time, it evolved into a gesture of goodwill and mutual respect across cultures.

Celebrating Birthdays with Cakes and Candles

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In ancient Greece, candles were placed on cakes to make them glow like the moon, a tribute to the lunar goddess Artemis. The candle smoke was believed to carry prayers and wishes to the gods.

Wearing Wedding Rings on the Fourth Finger

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The ancient Romans believed that a vein in the fourth finger of the left hand ran directly to the heart. This romantic notion led to the tradition of wearing the wedding ring on that finger, symbolizing love and commitment.

Saying "Bless You" After Sneezing

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This practice can be traced back to Pope Gregory the Great, who uttered it as a prayer during the bubonic plague's deadly spread. Sneezing was thought to be an early symptom of the plague, so saying "bless you" was a protective measure.

The "Thumbs Up" Gesture

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In ancient Rome, gladiators' fate was often determined by the crowd's gestures: thumbs up for life, thumbs down for death. However, its modern interpretation as a sign of approval or agreement varies by culture.

Using "X" to Sign Off on Documents

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Initially, people who couldn't read or write marked an "X" on legal documents, representing honesty and a Christian symbol referring to the cross.

Toasting Drinks

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Originating from ancient Greece, toasting was initially a gesture of goodwill, proving to guests that the drink wasn't poisoned by either sharing the same cup or clinking cups to spill drink into each other's.

Wearing Black for Mourning

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In Western cultures, wearing black at funerals dates back to the Roman Empire, symbolizing the absence of light and life. Queen Victoria popularized This practice in the 19th century after Prince Albert's death.

The High Five

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This celebratory gesture originated in the late 20th century, popularized by baseball players Glenn Burke and Dusty Baker of the Los Angeles Dodgers in 1977 as an on-the-spot invention during a game.

Carving Jack-o'-Lanterns for Halloween

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This tradition comes from an Irish myth about a man named Stingy Jack. Irish immigrants brought the practice of carving pumpkins instead of the original turnips and potatoes to America.

Knocking on Wood for Luck

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This practice likely originated from ancient pagan cultures that believed spirits and gods resided in trees. Knocking on wood was a way to invoke their protection or gratitude.

Wearing a Cap and Gown at Graduation

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This academic dress dates back to the 12th century, when universities were forming, and students wore them to stay warm in unheated buildings, eventually becoming a symbol of academic achievement.

Throwing Rice at Weddings

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In many cultures, throwing rice symbolizes rain, a sign of prosperity, fertility, and good fortune. This practice has evolved into throwing other items like flower petals or confetti.

Eating Cake on Your Wedding Day

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Originating from ancient Rome, bread was broken over the bride's head for fertility's sake. The practice evolved into eating cake, a symbol of sweetness and prosperity, shared between the bride and groom.

Carrying a Bridal Bouquet

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In ancient times, brides carried bouquets of herbs and spices to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. Over time, this evolved into the modern practice of carrying flowers, symbolizing love and happiness.

Spring Cleaning

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This practice has roots in several cultures, including the ancient Jewish tradition of cleansing the home before Passover and the Iranian Norouz, the Persian New Year, where everything in the house is thoroughly cleaned.

The Concept of Groundhog Day

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Stemming from a German legend brought to Pennsylvania by Dutch settlers, where if a groundhog sees its shadow on February 2, there will be six more weeks of winter.

The Siesta

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Originating in Spain, the practice of taking a midday nap dates back to Roman times. It was a practical way to avoid the hottest part of the day and has since become embedded in various cultures worldwide.

The Tooth Fairy

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This tradition has roots in medieval Europe, where a child's lost tooth was buried to spare the child from hardships in the afterlife. The modern concept of the Tooth Fairy leaving money evolved much later.

Crossing Fingers for Good Luck

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This gesture was used by early Christians as a secret symbol to identify each other. The practice evolved into a sign of seeking divine favor and protection, eventually becoming a gesture for wishing good luck.

The Tradition of Making New Year's Resolutions

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This practice dates back over 4,000 years to ancient Babylon, where people would make promises to the gods at the start of each year. Failure to keep these promises would supposedly lead to disfavor in the coming year.