Yeah man, esp. in the past several generations - let alone further back than that - it was extremely common for older men to naturally seek out younger brides.

It does make biological, economic & practical sense; The older a man gets, the more valuable he gets; he solidifies (and hopefully profits handsomely!) from his skill sets; builds a profitable business; his earning potentials are maximized.

He becomes a good provider.

Old women can't produce children. (YES of course there are always exceptions but that's all they are; exceptions)

You need a young bride to bear your children.

Its just biology. And economics.

Obviously I'm in no way advocating for extremes; child marriage or the other; but an 18 year old woman marrying a 50-60 year old used to be pretty darn common.