While the concept of taking a spouse surname is ingrained in our culture and is seen as almost normal, it has not always been common in the world. For example, in medieval England, adjectives did not even exist. People were identified only by name. But, as the population grew, this became impossible and identification with adjectives consequently became the norm.
For decades, women and men have sworn that "they will be close to each other for better or for worse" and then, in most cases, she takes his last name. But where did this tradition come from? Why do women take their husbands surnames? What will happen to same-sex couples?
The practice of taking the husband's surname was born in a deeply patriarchal society and is said to be a trace of a law dating back to the 11th century.
According to English historians, marriage meant that a woman's identity would be "covered up" by that of a man. From the moment of her marriage, a woman was known as a "secret" or veiled woman. With their identity, essentially erased, women could not own property or enter into contracts themselves. Men had complete control over their wives, legally and financially.
There was no expiration date of the privacy laws per se. Undoubtedly, the voting movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries helped destroy the "laws of secrecy." Feminists then pointed out that changing a woman’s name was an irrefutable act of submission.
Why do most women still bear their husbands surname?
For some, getting a partner's last name simply serves to strengthen the commitment. It is a gesture to show that they have no doubt about the decision they are making. For many others, taking a surname has more to do with the status of a family unit.
How many women choose to take their partner surname?
According to the New York Times, over 70% of women in the US choose to take their husbands surname after marriage. In Britain, that figure is around 90%. In Albania, there are no concrete statistics on this.
Is it common for men to take their wife surname?
Research shows that this has happened to only 3% of men. The decision, in almost all cases, has prompted comments and questions from friends, family and strangers.
What options do women have? They can:
- They keep their last name
- To keep both surnames, setting the maiden name as 'middle name'
- Let the spouse take her last name
- The family can create a new adjective
Source: Brides
