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Arranged marriages were something of a big deal to nearly every global civilization since since the start of civilized society. In some early cultures, girls and boys who did not have to work to earn a living were usually married at the ages of 12 and 14, respectively. (1) Simply put, if your family had overwhelming amounts of money and substantial influences on society, you probably wouldn't be able to marry your true love. As positively evil as this sounds, arranged marriages should not be confused with forced marriage. In arranged marriages, no matter how little love is involved in the union, both participants still agreed to the marriage. In a forced marriage, however, bride and bridegroom were bent against their in a physically or mentally abusive way to be married to each other. (2) Sometimes, though, arranged marriages can be peaceful and the bride and groom's entire life can pass by without event. According to some people, arranged marriages are the absolute best option for marriages because both partners in the union know what they are marrying and don't have many surprises throughout the marriage. A large percentage of arranged marriages today do not end in divorce and are generally very happy, if a bit forced. (3) Arranged marriages were and are still popular in eastern countries such as Japan, China, and India. During the Elizabethan Era in Europe, however, arranged marriages were just as popular with upper class men and women in the effort to keep their wealth and statuses. (4)