What was the average life expectancy between 26 B.C. and 395 A.D.?

The average life expectancy between 26 B.C. and 395 A.D. is often cited as around 24 years. This figure reflects the high infant mortality rates and the fact that many individuals did not live to adulthood during this historical period. Various factors contributed to this low life expectancy, including diseases, limited medical knowledge, poor sanitation, and frequent wars.

While it is important to note that those who survived childhood could live significantly longer—often into their 50s or 60s—the average takes into account all individuals, including infants and children who succumbed to health issues early in life. Consequently, the historical context and demographic patterns of the time substantiate the claim that the average life expectancy was around 24 years during this era.