In the news1769
Introduction of Paper Money
The government introduced paper money, known as assignats, for the first time in 1769, though ordinary people initially distrusted them and preferred metal coins.
10 Jun 1764 – 12 Apr 1838
6 facts1 source
10 Jun 1764
Born
1808–1813
2 children are born
12 Apr 1838
Dies, aged 73
He lived through 8 decades. Pick one to hear and see what it was like.
General history, not a record about the family: each item says where it comes from.
In the news1769
The government introduced paper money, known as assignats, for the first time in 1769, though ordinary people initially distrusted them and preferred metal coins.
Getting around
Average travel speed by carriage
In the 18th century, the average speed of travel for noble families using their own horses and carriages was about 5 km/h.
At the table
Rye bread was the daily staple
Ordinary families relied on rye bread as a daily staple, with an adult consuming up to two pounds of this dense, sour-leavened bread each day. Because bread was time-consuming to make, it was typically baked in a Russian oven only once a week.
Around the world · 1756–1763The Seven Years’ War. Fought in Europe, the Americas, Africa and India, often called the first world war: Britain took Canada and India from France.
What people wore
Inherited silk festive clothing of wealthy families
Merchant and wealthy peasant women cherished festive clothing made from thick silk fabrics like satin and brocade, which were passed down through generations. These colorful, expensive garments were often adorned with large, bright floral patterns that reflected a blend of European trends and traditional folk art.
Music
Social Gatherings and Folk Music Traditions
During the eighteenth century, young people often organized gatherings where they sang and danced, such as the cabbage-chopping parties, where work was followed by music and dancing once the older adults left the room.
Daily life
Home-based literacy for children
Due to a lack of public schools, children in noble families typically began learning literacy at home between the ages of 5 and 8. Teachers were often parents, relatives, local priests, or even household servants who knew how to read and write.