In the 1925 text, The Culture of the Abdomen, author Fredrick Hornibrook states that medical authorities of the time were outspoken about the flawed new sitting toilet/commode designs that were launched just decades earlier. (1/4) 
Sitting toilets or commodes were designed by cabinet-maker Joseph Bramah and plumber Thomas Crapper. There was no consultation with medical authorities at all, despite them raising the issues of faulty designs and suspected health consequences. (2/4)
in pic (Thomas Crapper)
in pic (Thomas Crapper)
But the sitting toilets were convenient for the dresses of Europe, with their pockets and tight fittings. Also, the chair toilet spoke to the European love of monarchy; Henry VIII had a sitting toilet constructed for him after he had become obese. (3/4)
But with the wars at the turn of the 20th century, replacing the chair toilet was a low priority and often financially not viable. A generation was created that preferred the sitting toilets, not learning how to manage themselves while squatting. (4/4)
There is also a business logic behind the sitting toilets becoming a popular choice.
In the US and western Europe, manufacturers quickly adapted this preference, as it required more porcelain, several parts to assemble, and thus rendered more profit.
In the US and western Europe, manufacturers quickly adapted this preference, as it required more porcelain, several parts to assemble, and thus rendered more profit.
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