Stuff You Should Know How Mail Order Marriages Work
Sep 21, 2021
Mail order marriages are more nuanced than they seem, spanning from genuine connections to potential exploitation. The discussion unpacks historical origins and societal perceptions, especially around women's agency in these unions. Ethical and legal issues are explored, highlighting risks and vulnerabilities faced by brides, particularly under U.S. and Vietnamese laws. Listener stories add a personal touch, revealing cultural implications and the impact of community support amidst challenges like the pandemic. This captivating topic reveals the complexity behind these relationships.
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Mail-Order Marriage Definition
- Mail-order marriages, now called international marriage brokerage, involve one partner, usually the bride, traveling a long distance to marry.
- This practice has a long history, evolving from early American settlers needing wives to modern online platforms.
Early American Mail-Order Marriages
- Early American colonies faced a shortage of women, leading to government-supported mail-order marriages for community stability.
- Colonial legislatures created laws making it attractive for women to become mail-order brides, offering better inheritance and property rights.
Mercer Girls
- Asa Mercer, a marriage broker, brought women east to marry settlers in Washington Territory, stabilizing the male population.
- Some of these "Mercer Girls" became influential figures, advocating for abolition, women's rights, and social reform.
