Nudism, or the practice of being naked in social settings, can be traced back to ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans.
In ancient Greece, nudity was associated with athleticism and the ideal of physical beauty. Athletes participating in the Olympic games competed naked, and nudity was common in public spaces such as the gymnasium and the baths. The philosopher Diogenes famously walked the streets of Athens naked, embracing a simple and natural way of life.
In ancient Rome, nudity was also associated with physical beauty and was often depicted in art. Public bathing was a common social activity, and nudity was accepted as a natural part of the experience. However, as Christianity gained influence, attitudes towards nudity changed, and it became associated with sin and immorality.
Outside of Greece and Rome, nudity was also practiced in other cultures such as the Celts, who were known to go naked into battle, and the Egyptians, who used nudity in certain religious rituals.
The practice of nudity in ancient times was often linked to physical beauty, athleticism, and a simple, natural way of life. While attitudes towards nudity have changed over time and vary between cultures, the tradition of social nudity can be traced back to the ancient world.