In 18th-century America, middle-to-upper class white women typically married at the age of 22.
Marriage Ages in 18th Century America
While the typical age for marriage among middle-to-upper class white women in 18th-century America was 22, the journey to marriage often began earlier. Girls would commonly start their courting period as young as 15 or 16. However, marriage itself was usually delayed until their early twenties. This period of courtship offered a unique time when women in the 18th century could experience a degree of freedom and influence before settling into married life.
Here's a breakdown of typical ages:
| Activity | Typical Age Range (18th Century America, Middle-to-Upper Class White Women) |
|---|---|
| Beginning Courtship | 15 or 16 |
| Marriage | 22 (though often delayed until early twenties) |
This delay in marriage allowed for a significant courtship phase, which was an important aspect of social life at the time.
