But I think it wasn't until the 1500's that celibacy became established in the Catholic church and at that point it was more a political decision (inheritance laws I think came into play (?)Can you cite some historical sources? What about the desert Fathers (and some desert Mothers)? They were celibate hermits, and in the 3rd century and maybe even 2nd.
Two words: The Apostle Paul. (Okay. That's THREE words.)