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As there was no effective way to prevent pregnancies, except for not having sex, people usually got children very young. Basicly as soon as they got married. Also remember the life expectancy was quite low, people usually did not live past 60 (some did). Many died around 40 years old.

In the 1600s it was also quite common to marry very young (especially women), even at 14. But at least on some countries there was this unwritten custom to not touch her if she was unmature (not developed breasts and no periods).

But we also have to remember counting years from birth is quite new tradition. In the 1600ths not many even knew what year they were born. For centuries the common men and women calculated their age roughly, if they had to. At that era there was no childhood as we know it, and there was not 'coming of age'. Women were counted ready when they got their periods.

But at that era periods generally started later comparing modern days. Especially if there was lack of nutritions. Nowdays we have food in plenty and our water supply (unfortunately) contains chemicals and hormones, which makes our young mature faster.

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13y ago

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