She lived through 4 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.
The 1620s · Juliane is born
In the news1618–1648
Destruction of the Thirty Years' War
The Thirty Years' War, lasting from 1618 to 1648, caused a demographic catastrophe where roughly one-third of urban residents and two-fifths of the rural population perished. Soldiers and camp followers frequently destroyed crops and seized food, leading to widespread famine and forcing villagers to abandon their land.
At the table
Salted Herring as a Daily Staple
Salted herring was a vital, affordable protein source for ordinary people, with a single fish costing 2 alb. It served as a staple alongside bread and cheese to supplement grain-based diets.
In 1626, Bavarian law strictly forbade common people, laborers, and farmers from wearing expensive fabrics like crimson-dyed cloth, gold or silver trimmings, or silk ribbons. Farmers were instead directed to use domestic wool, sheepskin, or calfskin and were permitted only simple linen collars without lace or fringe.
Getting around
Walking and Riding Were Common Travel Methods
Most people traveled on foot, taking an average of 30,000 to 40,000 steps per day, while wealthy individuals typically traveled on horseback.
What it cost
Food and clothing costs in 1622
In 1622 Pomerania, a pound of bacon cost 5 to 6 Schillinge, while a pair of simple shoes cost 20 Schillinge, nearly four times the price of the bacon.
Music
Weekly Music in Villages
In rural villages, musicians and singers performed church music every Sunday, and they even held dance events in local taverns.
Daily life
Limited and seasonal schooling for children
There was no general compulsory education, and rural schools were often only attended in winter because children were required to work on farms during the summer. Instruction focused primarily on memorizing the Bible to learn how to pray and read scripture, with writing and arithmetic taught only afterward if at all.