A Cultural History of Marriage in the Age of Empires

This book explores how marriage was a key transition in the life course worldwide during the age of empires (1800–1900), with romantic partner choice becoming a new ideal in Western Europe. In the United States, former slaves obtained the right to marry and formalize existing bonds after the Civil War, leading to a convergence in marriage patterns between the black and white population. Marriage was less common in Latin America, Australia, and New Zealand, but marriage rates were still on the rise. European colonial powers tried to change marriage customs in African and Asian societies, but eventually had to adapt themselves to avoid major resistance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 09 February 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The transition of marriage during the age of empires (1800-1900) was a significant milestone in the life course worldwide, celebrated as a rite of passage across diverse cultures. While certain aspects of marriage faced challenges, it also solidified its place in society, becoming more entrenched than ever before. In Western Europe, marriage emerged as the ultimate path to happiness and self-fulfillment, with romantic partner choice becoming the new ideal. In the United States, the aftermath of the Civil War brought about a convergence in marriage patterns between the black and white population, as former slaves gained the right to marry and formalize existing bonds.

Latin America, characterized by the prevalence of consensual unions, saw a rise in marriage rates despite being less common than in other regions. Australia and New Zealand also experienced similar trends. However, European colonial powers attempted to alter the marriage customs of indigenous populations in Africa and Asia, often encountering resistance that necessitated adaptation. Despite the turbulent political and economic changes of the era, marriage and the family remained steadfast pillars of society, providing stability and continuity for centuries.

A Cultural History of Marriage in the Age of Empires offers a comprehensive examination of this period through essays exploring various aspects of marriage. These essays delve into topics such as courtship and ritual, religion, state and law, kinship and social networks, the family economy, love and sex, the breaking of vows, and representations of marriage. By examining these diverse facets, the book provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the cultural significance of marriage during the age of empires.

Weight: 488g
Dimension: 169 x 245 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350355651