An East–West dichotomy? Shifting marriage age patterns in Taiwan and Sweden over two centuries

Age at marriage varies greatly over time and between places. This study examines changes in age differences spouses, as well marriage, 200 years Taiwan Sweden. Changes across vastly different socioeconomic demographic contexts are explored these two kinship systems. Five data sources used to create micro-level on spousal for Swedish marriages formed 1830 2006 Taiwanese ones that occurred 1870 2015. The findings reveal clearly distinct systems converge some ways but remain divergent other aspects. Since the 19th century Sweden has had a population marries much later life, when compared Taiwan, though pace of postponement made profiles contemporary married couples appear more similar those their counterparts. In addition, distribution ages also become dispersed than historical period both countries. While varied centuries, this puts particular emphasis how men women interacts with spouses. Findings revealed gendered preference Sweden, changed rising female status development. contrast shrinking one half average remained relatively constant, dispersion following U-shaped pattern reaching minimum around 1970.