| Abstract: | In a great many indigenous African societies, it is customary, as a preliminary to marriage, for some property to be given or delivered, by or on behalf of a prospective bride-groom to the relatives of the prospective bride. Because none of the English terms (brideprice, bride-wealth e.a.) give the true meaning of this custom, the author uses the term 'marriage-gifts'. This article is a legal analysis of the custom generally and, in particular, its legal significance in a customary African marriage; it also discusses the social and philosophical basis and raises questions as to the justification of its existence in the present-day world. Sections: Definition - Quantum of the gifts - Factors influencing quantum - Legislative limitations - Return of the gifts - How much is returnable? - Legal and extra-legal functions of marriage gifts - Concluding remarks. Notes. |
AfricaBib 
Periodical article
Leiden University catalogue
WorldCat