Dowry

A is a payment, such as property or money, paid by the bride's family to the groom or his family at the time of marriage. Dowry contrasts with the related concepts of and. While bride price or is a payment by the, or his family, to the bride, or her family, dowry is the wealth transferred from the bride, or her family, to the groom, or his family. Similarly, is the property settled on the bride herself, by the groom at the time of marriage, and which remains under her ownership and control.

Dowry is an ancient custom that is already mentioned in some of the earliest writings, and its existence may well predate records of it. Dowries continue to be expected and demanded as a condition to accept a proposal in many parts of the world. The custom of dowry is most common in cultures that are strongly and that expect women to reside with or near their husband’s family. Dowries have long histories in Europe, South Asia, Africa and other parts of the world.

Definition
A dowry is the transfer of parental property to a daughter at her marriage (i.e. ‘inter vivos’) rather than at the owner’s death (mortis causa). A dowry establishes a type of conjugal fund, the nature of which may vary widely. This fund may provide an element of financial security in widowhood or against a negligent husband, and may eventually go to provide for her children. Dowries may also go toward establishing a marital household, and therefore might include furnishings such as linens and furniture.

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