Did Any of the American Founding Fathers, like Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin, Hold Any Weird Beliefs?
The American Founding Fathers were not just revolutionaries and statesmen but also individuals with unique and sometimes quirky beliefs and practices. Among them, Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson are known for their eccentricities, which extend beyond politics and philosophy. One such curiosity involves their beliefs about health and well-being.
The Case of Benjamin Franklin
Benjamin Franklin, one of the most influential founding fathers, was known not just for his scientific and political accomplishments but also for his unconventional health practices. One of the most intriguing beliefs Franklin held was that people did not become cold from winter or cold air. Instead, he believed that colds were caused by being confined in close quarters with others.
This belief might seem eccentric to modern-day readers, but it highlights Franklin's holistic approach to health. His response to this belief was quite unique: he practiced something that can only be described as 'Naked Air Baths.' On a cold winter's day, Franklin would sit at his window completely naked, exposing himself to the cold air to 'rid himself of the cold.' This practice was not just a curious custom but a testament to Franklin's self-proclaimed wisdom about health and happiness.
Air Baths and Liberty
Franklin's affinity for air baths was more than just a personal hobby. He embraced the idea of 'air baths' as a form of natural health therapy. Instead of taking water baths, which might be interpreted as a derogatory comment on his personal life, Franklin preferred to strip naked and open the French doors and windows of his study, allowing the wind to wash over him while he reclined in a lounge chair. This practice was seen as a symbolic act of freedom and natural living.
Franklin's idea of air baths was rooted in the belief that exposure to the elements, particularly the air, could improve one's health. This practice foreshadowed later trends in health and wellness, where exposure to the elements is seen as beneficial for mental and physical well-being.
Thomas Jefferson and His Intellectual Pursuits
To compare and contrast with Franklin, little is known about Thomas Jefferson's eccentric health beliefs. However, one piece of trivia about Franklin that stood out was his aversion to water baths. This practice might have raised questions about his personal appearance and hygiene, but it also reflected a broader belief in natural remedies and the body's ability to heal itself.
Jefferson, being a believer in the natural world, likely shared some similar views on the benefits of air and fresh air over water. Though not as documented as Franklin's, Jefferson's intellectual pursuits and the scientific atmosphere of his time would have influenced his views on health and natural living.
Conclusion: Unusual Beliefs in Historical Context
The eccentric beliefs of these founding fathers, while perhaps seen as odd today, reflect the broader cultural and intellectual climate of the time. Franklin's naked air baths and Jefferson's appreciation for air baths underscore the founders' adherence to natural healing practices that were highly valued in the 18th century.
These personal beliefs and practices highlight the multifaceted roles of the founding fathers, extending far beyond their political and philosophical contributions. By exploring these aspects, we gain a deeper understanding of the individuals who shaped early American society and the values that continue to influence us today.