From Roman Fire Brigades to Modern Heroes: A Surprisingly Murky History of Firefighting
This week's newsletter aimed to explore the origins of firefighting through the story of Crassus, a wealthy Roman who allegedly operated a private fire brigade. However, the author discovered that the commonly told tale is weakly sourced and potentially exaggerated. The article pivots to a more accurate account of firefighting history, detailing the evolution from reliance on self-help and private brigades in ancient societies to the emergence of professional municipal fire departments in the 19th century and beyond. The article is richly illustrated with images showcasing the evolution of fire marks, firefighter attire and equipment, and heroic imagery from various periods, offering a blend of history and captivating visuals.