What did people say before 5 score years ago?

"Five score years ago" refers to a period of 100 years, as a score equals 20 years. The phrase gained prominence through Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, which reflects on the founding principles of the United States. Before this time, people often discussed events, social issues, and political matters in the context of their own experiences and historical milestones. The language used was more formal and poetic compared to contemporary speech, often incorporating biblical references and classical rhetoric.