old Dutch professions that seem fake but really existed

Did you know the Netherlands once had jobs so strange, specific, and unbelievable that they sound made up—but were 100% real? From Sjouwermannen carrying heavy wool bales, to Organ Pumpers supplying air for church organs, and even modern Bike Fishermen salvaging thousands of bicycles from canals, Dutch history is full of professions you’ve never heard of!
In this video, we explore 21 old Dutch professions that seem fake but really existed, uncovering the fascinating, bizarre, and sometimes dangerous jobs that shaped Dutch cities, industries, and culture. Learn how geography, tradition, and innovation created roles that seem almost fictional today—and see how some even survive in modern Holland!

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🔹 What you’ll discover in this video:
The brutal, exhausting work of the Sjouwerman
Hyper-specific jobs like the Zijboomster in the textile industry
Dangerous and daring roles like the Leeuwentemmer
Essential, quirky jobs like the Poepenschepper and Waterdrager
Modern oddities like Fietsvissers (bike fishermen) still working today
If you love hidden history, weird jobs, and Dutch culture, this video is for you!

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