An Alternative to Divorce in the 18th Century

An Alternative to Divorce in the 18th Century

Husband Abandonment and Divorce

Between the 17th and 19th centuries, divorce was very expensive and many commoners could not afford to divorce their husbands or wives. Instead, many british husbands would sell their wives in public places, such as markets, taverns, and fairs. This was a harsh display of mockery and humiliation. Although many saw this as a form of entertainment, many low-class british men used this to effectively divorce.

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https://www.history.com/news/england-divorce-18th-century-wife-auction

Erin Blakemore-History Channel

16th to 18th Century

Christine Chang

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Divorce in the 18th Century