Were aranged marriages common in the 1600s?

Answer 1

Yes, arranged marriages were quite common in the 1600s, particularly among the upper classes and nobility in many cultures around the world. These unions were often used to strengthen familial alliances, secure property, and maintain social status. Love was typically not the primary consideration; instead, families prioritized economic and political advantages. While some individuals did marry for love, arranged marriages remained the norm in many societies during this period.