Portuguese marriages in an Amazonian capital: Demographic profi le, rules and social networks (Belém, 1891-1920)

Authors

  • Cristina Donza Cancela Universidade Federal do Pará e do Programa
  • Daniel Souza Barroso Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA)

Abstract

Between the late 19th and early 20th century, the Amazon region was the destination of an intense migration process, which included a signifi cant number of Portuguese. Th is article examines the profi le of the “Portuguese marriages,” highlighting their representativeness and age at marriage, occupational activity and origin of the couple. It explores the relationship between the age of  wedding and gender, besides the existence of
a homogamic behavior among this group. It also analyzes dowry contracts and tensions associated with bigamy and adultery. Th e authors discuss the intersection between migration, gender, generation and social status, using records of weddings and criminal lawsuits.


Key words: marriage, Portuguese, migration, Amazon region.

Published

2011-05-04