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The Her in Inheritance: How Marriage Matching Has Always Mattered, Quebec 1800–1970

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  • Curtis, Matthew

Abstract

When did marriage become strongly assortative? I use a uniquely suitable database from Quebec 1800–1970 to provide the long-run perspective necessary to answer this question. First, I develop a novel method that reveals that marriage was highly assortative as far back as the early nineteenth century. Next, I show this matching depends on the individual human capital of women, not just on family backgrounds. Finally, I show that mothers had an effect on child outcomes independent of the fathers. Thus, despite deeply conservative gender norms, marriage matching—and women—have always mattered for social mobility.

Suggested Citation

  • Curtis, Matthew, 2026. "The Her in Inheritance: How Marriage Matching Has Always Mattered, Quebec 1800–1970," The Journal of Economic History, Cambridge University Press, vol. 86(1), pages 38-66, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:cup:jechis:v:86:y:2026:i:1:p:38-66_2
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