The money and goods involved in a marriage are called <u>dowry</u>. The basic purpose of a dowry has been to bring some protection for the wife against violence and abuse by her husband and his family. Also, the dowry may serve to help the new couple to establish a home. This was more common in societies where the marriage of very young people has been arranged. Also, a dowry provides the wife with the resources in case of her man's death.
In the Middle Ages, the dowry had the function to enhance the value of a woman for marriage and increase power and wealth of great families. Dowries virtually disappeared in Europe in the XIX and XX century.
Yes...................................................................
A patriarch is the highest church official.
This indeed is true. When the United States of America accused China of human rights violations this without any doubt negatively affected the way how these two mighty nations conversed with each others and how the diplomatic relationships continued.
"<span>a. Masters could reclaim slaves who fled to other southern states" is the best option from the list, since this was one of the most controversial acts that was one of the leading catalysts for the outbreak of the Civil War.</span>