Franklin

Franklin is a common name that may refer to various subjects. In the context of this article, Franklin refers to a historical term used in England during the Middle Ages. A Franklin was a landowner of free but not noble birth, holding a substantial amount of land. The term is derived from the Anglo-French frankeleyn, from the Latin francus meaning "free", and the suffix -lein which is equivalent to "-ling" in English.

History

The term Franklin was used in England and the English-speaking world during the Middle Ages and the early modern period. It denoted a class of landowners who were free men, but not of noble birth. They held a substantial amount of land, often equivalent to a manor, and were considered to be of significant social standing, though below the nobility.

Social Status

Franklins were considered to be of significant social standing in the Middle Ages. They were free men, which distinguished them from serfs and other unfree laborers. However, they were not of noble birth, which placed them below the nobility in the social hierarchy. Despite this, they often held substantial amounts of land and could exercise considerable local influence.

Land Ownership

Franklins were typically substantial landowners. They often held land equivalent to a manor, which could include arable land, pasture, and woodland. This land was typically held in fee simple, meaning that it was owned outright and could be passed on to the Franklin's heirs.

See Also

• Middle Ages
• Manor
• Serf
• Nobility
• Land tenure in England

References

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