I’ve just been trawling through the archives and came across the topic of foot-binding (see http://www.straightdope.com/classics/a981023.html). Interestingly enough, not every one did it - the ethnic groups of Manchus and the Hakkas didn’t believe in it (http://www.angelfire.com/ca/beekeeper/foot.html, one of many such sites on the web). Thought it be an interesting clarification note to readers. - L