What is the history of arranged marriage?

Answer 1

Arranged marriage has a long history, dating back thousands of years across various cultures, where families, rather than individuals, decided on marital unions to strengthen alliances, consolidate wealth, or ensure social status. In many societies, these marriages were seen as practical arrangements rather than romantic unions, with parents playing a central role in matching partners based on factors like compatibility, family background, and socioeconomic status. While the prevalence of arranged marriages has declined in some parts of the world due to changing social norms and the rise of individual choice, it remains a common practice in several cultures today, often blending traditional values with modern influences.