Arranged marriage is a type of marital union where the bride and groom are primarily selected by individuals other than the couple themselves, particularly by family members such as the parents. Arranged marriages have historically been prominent in many cultures. In many other parts of the world, the practice has declined substantially during the 19th and 20th centuries.
Forced marriages , practised in some families, are condemned by the United Nations. The specific sub-category of forced child marriage is especially condemned. Arranged marriages were the norm throughout the world until the 18th century. Some historical exceptions are known, such as courtship and betrothal rites during the Renaissance period of Italy [ 4 ] and Gandharva Vivah in the Vedic period in the Indian subcontinent.
Marriage in Greco-Roman antiquity was based on social responsibility. Marriages were usually arranged by the parents; on occasion professional matchmakers were used. For the marriage to be legal, the woman's father or guardian had to give permission to a suitable man who could afford to marry. Orphaned daughters were usually married to cousins. The couple participated in a ceremony which included rituals such as removal of the veil.
A man was typically limited to only one wife, though he could have as many mistresses as he could afford. A marriage was a negotiation and decision between parents and other older members of two families. The boy and girl were typically told to get married, without a right to demur, even if they had never met each other until the wedding day.
Arranged marriages were the norm in Russia before the early 20th century, most of which were endogamous. Until the first half of the 20th century, arranged marriages were common in migrant families in the United States. These marriages among immigrants were typically arranged by parents or close relatives from the country of their origin.
