The first televised episode of The Bachelor aired in 2002, but the roots of this popular American reality series go back much further; specifically, to 1773 when Paul Revere set out on a journey to find true love.
“The bachelorettes are coming!”
After the death of his first wife earlier that year, Revere responded to an ad for colonial bachelors: “Date 25 of the Colonies’ hottest bachelorettes and propose to the lady of your dreams!” Turns out he was the only bachelor that applied. And the only person who failed to read the fine print: “Sign here to grant The Bachelor producers full rights to record every moment of your life from this day forward and to enlist yourself to any and all Revolutionary efforts requested of you.”
After the death of his first wife earlier that year, Revere responded to an ad for colonial bachelors: “Date 25 of the Colonies’ hottest bachelorettes and propose to the lady of your dreams!” Turns out he was the only bachelor that applied. And the only person who failed to read the fine print: “Sign here to grant The Bachelor producers full rights to record every moment of your life from this day forward and to enlist yourself to any and all Revolutionary efforts requested of you.”
When Paul showed up in Boston for his first day as The Bachelor he was surprised to see that it wasn't 25 women as promised, but a mere 3: Rachel, Martha and Courtney. (A fourth bachelorette applied to participate, but was turned down) And instead of 3 months of courting, the producers decided that one week and one Rose Ceremony would be sufficient.
On the first group date, Paul and his three potential brides spent the day in Salem, Massachusetts, where they reenacted the Salem Witch Trials. Paul was captivated by Courtney's very convincing performance. However, Rachel made the most lasting first impression by showing off her horseback riding talents during their trip back to Boston.
While relaxing at the Bachelor Mansion later in the week, Paul received disconcerting news regarding one of the bachelorettes: Martha was allegedly already married to another man. When Paul confronted her about this rumor, Martha broke down, sobbing, and admitted she had recently tied the knot. She had been feeling neglected by her husband and hoped that by coming on The Bachelor she would be distracted from troubles at home. Martha was sent back to her husband in Virginia promptly after this confession, leaving Paul with just two eligible brides from which to choose.
At the end of the week Paul weighed his options carefully before heading to the The Rose Ceremony. While it was a tough decision, The Final Rose went to Rachel, who became Mrs. Revere the following week.
The Revere's planned a honeymoon trip to celebrate their marriage, but unfortunately the War and Paul's accidental enlistment had caught up with them and Paul was sent off for another Midnight Ride.
"...One if by land, and two if by sea; And I on the opposite shore will be, Ready to ride and spread the alarm..." -Love poem recited by Paul Revere to Rachel as he departed for the Revolutionary War
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