"If the left half of the brain controls the right half of the body, then only left-handed people are right-minded." - WC Fields
Today we celebrate International Left-Handers Day, established in 1976 by Dean R. Campbell, founder of the Left-Handers Club. Its purpose is to raise awareness of the daily challenges faced by the approximately 10% of people in the world and to honor those who sometimes feel “left behind” in a right-handed world.
Here are 7 truths about left-handed people that you probably didn't know:
1. Historical stigmas
Historically, left-handers have been viewed as evil. Black magic was often called the "left-hand path," and during the Middle Ages some left-handers were burned at the stake for being associated with the devil. Many religious texts, including Christianity, privileged the right hand, viewing it as "pure and auspicious."
2. They were stained with paint.
Before the invention of pens, writing left-handed with a quill meant getting ink all over the paper and your hands. In many schools, left-handed children were forced to write with their right hand, sometimes even having their left hand tied behind their back.
3. Cultural associations
The left hand is often seen as unclean in some cultures. In India, Pakistan, Nepal, and the Middle East, it is inappropriate to use the left hand to eat or pick up objects, while in Islam it is used for personal hygiene.
4. Gender appropriateness
More left-handed men and boys are left-handed. A 2008 study showed that 23% more men are left-handed compared to women.
5. Migraine
Studies have shown that left-handers are more likely to experience migraines and immune system problems, including allergies and autoimmune diseases.
6. Creative advantages
About 20% of left-handers use the right hemisphere of their brain more for movement and creativity, compared to only 5% of right-handed people. This explains why great figures such as Leonardo Da Vinci, Charlie Chaplin, Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, and Kurt Cobain were left-handed.
7. Left-handed animals
Some animals also have a left-handed preference. Studies show that most kangaroos use their left arm for everyday activities, while their right arm is used for actions that require strength.
Happy International Left-Handers Day!
