In medieval England, particularly around the 12th century, one English king kept a surprising number of employees on the royal payroll for the sole purpose of passing gas.
King Henry II reportedly employed professional flatulists (also known as jesters or fools) whose unique responsibility was to fart for the king whenever he desired the sound or perhaps the scent of gas.
One of the most famous among them was Roland the Farter. He is chronicled in royal records as the finest performer in the history of “gassing.” King Henry II was so impressed by Roland’s abilities that he awarded him 30 acres of land in England. Roland was known for his elaborate performances, which included a jump, a whistle, and a single, well-timed fart often described as a “jump and a twi-twi” for His Majesty.
Flatulence performance was not restricted to Europe. In Japan, professional farters were called “heppiri otoko”, and they enjoyed a significant level of respect in their communities for their unique occupation.
This kind of cultural leadership, or traditional entertainment, is a far cry from today’s modern standards. In medieval times, such jesters were often kept at court to amuse kings in unusual ways including gassing on demand. However, modern leadership practices are unlikely to justify employing someone purely for their farting abilities especially if the salary is drawn from the public purse.
Roland the Farter was well-respected in England and received generous rewards, including land and a monthly salary. When he passed away in the early 12th century, he left behind his wealth acquired through his unusual but official role to his children. However, there is little documentation on whether his children continued the family occupation.
Back home in Uganda, among the Acholi, if someone accidentally farts while negotiating a dowry, a fine of five cows is traditionally imposed on the spot. It remains unclear whether similar cultural penalties exist among the Bamasaaba.
In modern times, such roles particularly those funded by taxpayers might attract audit queries. How can one quantify or qualify a fart as commensurate with a government salary? Nevertheless, such is the nature of kings they have always done mysterious things. After all, didn’t one Buganda king reportedly order the execution of thousands simply for looking at his beautiful daughters?
When colonial powers took over leadership in Uganda, any customs that conflicted with principles of natural justice were deemed repugnant and unwelcome in the colonial courts.
The writer is a researcher based in Mbale.
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