15 Things That Used to Be Common but Are Illegal Today
Over time, societal values, safety concerns, and technological advances have led to significant changes in laws. Many activities once considered normal or even encouraged are now banned in various parts of the world. Some of these changes may seem surprising, especially since they were part of daily life just a few decades ago.
- Tricia Quitales
- 6 min read
From outdated parenting methods to now-dangerous hobbies, history is full of once-common practices that are now against the law. These bans reflect shifts in cultural norms, scientific understanding, and the importance of human rights. Activities that were once a part of regular life now carry legal consequences due to their potential harm. Understanding these changes provides insight into how laws evolve alongside society. Each example serves as a reminder of progress in health, safety, and equality.
1. Smoking on Airplanes
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Not long ago, lighting up a cigarette mid-flight was entirely acceptable. Airplanes even had designated smoking sections, and many travelers didn’t think twice about the smoke-filled cabins. Over time, health concerns and secondhand smoke dangers became impossible to ignore. Airlines began phasing out smoking in the 1980s and eventually implemented full bans. Today, smoking on planes is strictly illegal in most countries.
2. Corporal Punishment in Schools
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Teachers were once legally allowed to discipline students by paddling or hitting them. Corporal punishment was seen as a tool to maintain order and respect in classrooms. Over the years, psychological studies have shown its negative impact on child development. Many countries and states have since outlawed physical punishment in educational settings. Today, such actions could lead to legal consequences for educators.
3. Child Labor
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Historically, children were often employed in factories, farms, or mines. They often worked long hours under dangerous conditions for very little pay. As awareness of children’s rights and safety grew, laws were created to protect them. Compulsory education and labor regulations have significantly reduced child exploitation. Employing children in most industries is now strictly illegal in many countries.
4. Driving Without a Seatbelt
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Seatbelt use was not always mandatory, and many people simply chose not to wear them. It wasn’t until crash research highlighted their life-saving potential that laws were introduced. Campaigns and new regulations pushed for consistent seatbelt use in all vehicles. Today, driving without a seatbelt can result in fines or worse in many regions. The simple click of a belt has become a legal requirement for safety.
5. Dueling
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Settling disputes with a formal duel was once a common way to restore honor. These violent face-offs, often involving pistols or swords, were deeply embedded in certain cultural traditions. Over time, societies began to view dueling as barbaric and unnecessary. Legal systems replaced personal vengeance with structured justice. Today, dueling is illegal almost everywhere and can lead to criminal charges.
6. Public Hanging
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Executions in public spaces used to draw massive crowds and were treated like social events. Governments used them to display the consequences of crime and deter others. Over time, public sentiment shifted to viewing them as inhumane spectacles. Most countries have abolished public hangings and moved away from capital punishment altogether. Conducting public executions is now widely considered illegal and unethical.
7. Lead-Based Paint in Homes
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For years, homes were painted using lead-based paints that offered durability and vibrant colors. It wasn’t until health studies showed the danger of lead poisoning, especially in children, that concern grew. Ingesting lead particles could lead to cognitive and developmental issues. Governments eventually banned its use in residential properties. Today, the sale or use of lead-based paint in homes is prohibited in many countries.
8. Using Asbestos in Construction
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Asbestos was a popular building material due to its resistance to fire and heat. It was commonly used in insulation, ceilings, and floor tiles. Decades later, it was discovered that asbestos exposure could lead to fatal illnesses such as mesothelioma. Laws began restricting and eventually banning its use in construction. Today, using asbestos in building materials is illegal in many places due to its severe health risks.
9. Advertising Cigarettes to Children
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Decades ago, it was normal to see cartoon mascots or candy-flavored branding on cigarette ads. Tobacco companies often targeted youth to build long-term customer bases. Eventually, research linked early smoking habits to lifelong addiction and major health issues. Governments stepped in with strict marketing laws to protect children. Now, advertising cigarettes to minors is banned in most countries.
10. Using Mercury in Everyday Products
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Mercury was once a common ingredient in household items like thermometers and light bulbs. It was used for its conductive and thermal properties. However, mercury exposure was later found to be highly toxic, especially with long-term contact. Governments created strict regulations to limit or eliminate its use in consumer products. Selling items containing mercury is now illegal in many jurisdictions.
11. Driving While Drunk Without Penalty
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In earlier decades, driving under the influence was seen more as a poor choice than a crime. Law enforcement often let drunk drivers off with a warning. With the rise in alcohol-related accidents and fatalities, public opinion and laws changed. Breathalyzers, roadside checks, and strict penalties were introduced to curb this deadly behavior. Today, driving drunk is a serious crime with legal and social consequences.
12. Gender-Based Employment Discrimination
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There was a time when job ads could explicitly say “men only” or offer different pay rates based on gender. Women were routinely denied certain positions regardless of qualifications. Feminist movements and civil rights activism brought attention to this unfair treatment. Equal opportunity laws were enacted to combat discrimination. Today, such employment practices are illegal in many countries.
13. Marital Rape Being Legally Permissible
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Historically, many legal systems did not recognize rape within marriage as a crime. The belief was that consent was implied by marriage. Over time, activists and survivors highlighted the injustice of this legal gap. Legal reforms began recognizing marital rape as a serious crime. Today, many nations have criminalized it and continue to advocate for stronger protections.
14. Dumping Waste into Rivers
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Factories and individuals used to dump industrial and household waste directly into rivers. There was little understanding or concern for environmental impact. Over time, pollution led to ecosystem destruction and waterborne diseases. Environmental laws were created to protect waterways from contamination. Dumping untreated waste is now illegal in many areas around the world.
15. Using Animals in Traveling Circuses
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Traveling circuses once relied heavily on animal acts, often involving elephants, lions, or bears. Behind the scenes, these animals suffered from abuse, confinement, and a lack of medical care. As animal rights movements gained momentum, awareness grew about their mistreatment. Many countries passed laws banning the use of wild animals in entertainment. Today, animal-based circuses are illegal or heavily restricted in numerous places.