Foot binding was a traditional Chinese practice that involved tightly wrapping the feet of young girls to alter their shape. This custom began during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) and aimed to create small, delicate feet, which were considered a symbol of beauty and status. The process often caused severe pain and lifelong disabilities. The practice persisted for centuries, becoming a cultural norm among the elite and later spreading to other social classes. However, by the early 20th century, foot binding was increasingly criticized and eventually banned, as it was seen as a violation of women's rights and health.