Agricultural History Review, Volume 37 Part 1 (1989), pp. 26–35

Although Jethro Tull has been recognized as an important innovatory figure in agricultural methods in the eighteenth century, little has been written concerning his origins and social background; and much of that is either vague or inexact. From genealogical and other research, new information is provided concerning the family background of Jethro Tull. In particular the three Jethro Tulls who overlapped in time and place (especially with regard to Prosperous Farm) are distinguished. Some revision is suggested in the date of Tull's commencement at Prosperous Farm and of his journey to the continental vineyards. This and other additional background information throws light both on Tull's personality and behaviour and on his need to innovate in order to convert Prosperous from sheepdown to arable. 

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