Did you know that President Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama were all left-handed? August 13th has been designated as International Left-Handers Day to celebrate the 10% of the world’s left-handed population, living in a right-handed world where most things are designed for right-handed people.
Living in a right-handed world often means left-handed individuals have to adapt every day. Everyday tools such as scissors, can openers, and spiral notebooks, are typically designed with right-handed users in mind.
As a result, left-handed individuals often have to find unconventional ways to use these tools. Writing presents a daily challenge, from smudging ink to awkward hand positioning. Spiral notebooks can obstruct the writing hand, and classroom seats rarely consider the needs of left-handed students.
Additionally, many sports equipment, such as baseball gloves are designed primarily for right-handers. Even driving a car can be challenging for the left-handers.
Myths have portrayed left-handers negatively in society for centuries. Historically, being left-handed was associated with sinister or evil traits, with the Latin word for left, “sinistra.”
In reality, left-handed people are just as capable and intelligent as right-handers, excelling in various fields, from science to arts. A study by Dr Chris McManus of University College London debunked many of these myths, showing that left-handers are not more prone to psychological issues than right-handers. The myths surrounding left-handers are unfounded and have gradually been debunked by understanding and acceptance of human modernity.
Our brain is cross wired, meaning that the right side controls the left side of the body and vice versa. Scientists at the University of Oxford say that the brains of left-handed people work differently than right-handed people.
In a study, scientists monitored the brains of left-handed people and found that the two sides of their brains were better connected. Chris McManus, author of the book “Right Hand, Left-Hand” and a researcher at University College London, said being left-handed may lead to a slightly unusual brain organisation, providing individuals with unique skills.
Many celebrities like members of the Beatles—Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr—were left-handed. Hollywood couple Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew Broderick, actress Julia Roberts, and talk-show host Oprah Winfrey are also lefties. Other famous left-handed individuals include tech-savvy Bill Gates and Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg. In politics, five US presidents were left-handed, including Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. Before them, left-handed presidents included James A. Garfield and Harry Truman.
In a world dominated by right-handers, left-handers persist in overcoming limitations and debunking age-old myths, proving their capability. As we celebrate this day, we acknowledge and respect the contributions made by left-handers as a powerful force for progress and creativity in our world.