The History of Beards and Why They Are Still Popular Today
The history of beards is as long and varied as the men that have grown them. For centuries, facial hair has been a symbol of masculinity, wisdom, and strength. In ancient times, beards were a status symbol, a sign of power. They were also thought to ward off evil spirits.
The ancient Egyptians were some of the first to sport beards. They used wax to shape and style their facial hair, often decorating it with jewels. In ancient Greece, beards were also seen as a sign of status, and warriors such as Achilles and Alexander the Great were often depicted with full beards. In Rome, shaving was a sign of servitude, so upper-class citizens kept their beards well-groomed and stylish.
In the Middle Ages, beards were seen as a sign of strength and virility. Men would often grow their beards long and fierce to intimidate their enemies. Many men of the period also believed that beards helped to protect their faces from the cold and from battle injuries.
The Renaissance period saw a shift in the perception of facial hair. Nobles and other upper-class men began to clean-shave and wear their hair short, in order to appear more refined and sophisticated. This trend continued into the 19th century, when beards were largely forsaken in favor of a clean-shaven look.
However, in the early 20th century, beards made a comeback. They were seen as a sign of virility and masculinity and became popular with men in the military, the arts, and politics. The modern revival of beards was spearheaded by celebrities such as Brad Pitt, George Clooney and David Beckham.
Today, beards are still popular, although styles have changed. They’re seen as a way to express individuality and style, and many men enjoy experimenting with different styles.
Beards are also popular as they’re seen as a natural way to protect the skin from the elements, and they can help to make a man look more distinguished and mature. Beards also require less grooming than a clean-shaven look, making them an attractive option for men who don’t have the time or inclination for more extreme grooming.
In short, beards have been a part of human history for centuries, and they remain popular today. They’re seen as a way to express individuality and style, and they can offer protection from the elements. Whether you’re looking for a masculine look or something more subtle, beards are here to stay.
