National Fart Day

National Fart Day, celebrated on February 5, is a lighthearted holiday meant for laughter and fun. In the U.S., there are several similar holidays, including National Pass Gas Day on January 7, and others on February 5, March 5, and July 31, like Fart Out Loud Day. While farting is typically seen as a breach of etiquette, it’s fascinating to note that flatulence has historically sparked significant conflicts and even battles!

The History Behind National Fart Day

For a long time, before formal manners took shape, farting was considered a normal part of life. Different cultures have unique customs, yet a universal etiquette system emerged that most people understand today. Flatulence is a prime example. The ancient Greek historian Herodotus chronicled an incident where a fart contributed to the downfall of King Apries of Egypt in 569 B.C. When a rebellion broke out in his army, Apries dispatched General Amasis to handle the situation. Instead, the rebels took the opportunity to crown Amasis as king. Apries subsequently sent his advisor, Patarbemis, to deal with Amasis, who humorously responded by passing gas and instructing Patarbemis to relay this to the king. Enraged by the message, Apries ordered the disfigurement of Patarbemis, which incited the populace to revolt and solidified Amasis’ rule.

Farts have even played a role in significant historical events. As documented in “The Jewish War” by Josephus, during a Passover celebration in 44 B.C., a Roman soldier exposed himself, let one rip, and uttered some offensive remarks, which triggered the Jews to retaliate by stoning the soldiers. This led to a chaotic riot that resulted in the deaths of about 10,000 people, primarily Jews. In 1607, British Parliament member Henry Ludlow famously farted during a debate, an event that has become legendary and inspired poetry like “The Censure of the Parliament Fart.” Benjamin Franklin also joined the conversation in 1781 with his essay “Fart Proudly,” where he humorously challenged friends to invent a potion for fragrant farts, highlighting that certain foods could alter the smell of bodily gas.

In the late 1800s, Joseph Pujol, a professional farter known as ‘Le Petomane,’ entertained audiences globally with his unique talent. He even surpassed famed actress Sarah Bernhardt in ticket sales at the Moulin Rouge. Interestingly, farting might have even influenced important events during World War II, as medical records indicate that Adolf Hitler suffered from uncontrollable flatulence—a side effect attributed to his vegetarian diet. By 1941, he was taking numerous pills, which were later found to have severe side effects.

On a lighter note, Bernard Clemmens from London holds the Guinness World Record for the longest fart lasting two minutes and 42 seconds! National Fart Day has been celebrated since 2008, encouraging everyone to embrace their bodily functions without shame. It’s amusing how many holidays honor farting, suggesting that people secretly yearn for the freedom to let it out, despite societal norms. Holding in gas can lead to significant discomfort and even health issues, so don’t hold back—celebrate National Fart Day!