Charles of Saxony, Duke of Courland

At the table

Introduction of the Potato

Although potatoes were introduced in 1727, they were initially met with skepticism by the public, who often did not know how to cultivate them properly. Over time, they became a crucial food source for the poor due to their reliability and ability to prevent famine.

What people wore

Prussian Soldier Clothing Allowances

Prussian soldiers were entitled to annual small clothing issues including two pairs of shoes, two shirts, and linen trousers, costing 5 thalers, 6 groschen, and 2 pfennigs, often deducted from their pay. Old uniforms were frequently repurposed into nightcaps and chest cloths by non-commissioned officers and soldiers.

Getting around

Difficulties of traveling on Prussian roads

In the 18th century, travel in Prussia was notoriously difficult due to poor roads, with some passengers joking that they could have walked faster than the carriage. A coachman could even abandon a passenger on the road if the passenger struck them or complained too aggressively.

Work

Common occupations and labor obligations

Most ordinary people were village farmers who worked as fullholders, halfholders, or smallholders, often supplementing farming with cottage industries like spinning, weaving, or basic woodworking. Many were legal subjects of a local lordship, rendering rent through grain, cash, or compulsory labor known as Frondienst.

Music

Hautboisten provided common musical entertainment

Hautboisten, who were professional wind ensembles, were among the primary providers of musical entertainment in Prussian lands during the first half of the 18th century.

Daily life

Irregular school attendance and teaching

Prussian schooling was often erratic, with children frequently absent during summer months to work on farms or when families were required to pay fines for failing to send them. Many schools lacked trained teachers, relying instead on local sextons, discharged soldiers, or day laborers who often struggled to teach basic reading and arithmetic.