In the news1707–1710
Plague pandemic of 1707–1710
A devastating plague pandemic swept across Poland between 1707 and 1710, claiming 9,000 lives in Poznań alone and causing the local authorities in Lublin to execute grave robbers accused of spreading the disease.
What people wore
Festive clothing regardless of heat
To manifest their status during feast days, peasants sometimes wore wadded caftans and fustian skirts even in the summer, regardless of the intense heat.
Getting around
Travel Methods for Different Social Classes
Ordinary people typically traveled by foot or in simple carts called kolasa, while the wealthy used horses, private carriages, or, by the late 18th century, stagecoaches on main routes.
In the news1709
Great famine after the 1709 winter
A severe winter caused the Bodensee to freeze completely, leading to widespread crop failures and famine across Europe.
Music
Carnival Sleigh Rides and Masquerade Balls
During the carnival season, noblemen organized sleigh rides from mansion to mansion, accompanied by musicians playing dance music; these festivities included balls where guests sometimes wore costumes of peasants, Jews, and Gypsies.
Daily life
Dining customs and table utensils
People ate primarily from shared wooden bowls using their fingers or wooden spoons, as individual plates and forks were rare; guests were often expected to bring their own knife and spoon to a feast. Glassware and fine ceramics only began to replace traditional metal cups and dishes during the 18th century.