The term ''Franklin'' was defined as a Social Class of Person that existed from the 12th to 15th Centuries AD. These People were considered Freemen who had never been in The Class of Serf (or common ''Slave Laborer''). In time, The Franklin would developed into Landed Gentry or an early example of Middle Class. They were often somewhat educated. Often skilled Artisans, they provided a service to Noblemen that the average (lower ranked) Serf could provide. The term Franklin would also evolve into that of ''Freeholder'' (or ''One who can own Land''). With the end of Serfdom, The ''Franklin'' would too end – also the genesis of a Family name of ''Franklin'' is a direct link to The Medieval Classification.