In pre-industrial society, what was one primary reason for marriages among the upper classes?

Marriages among the upper classes in pre-industrial society were primarily driven by the need for wealth consolidation. In this context, unions were often arranged with strategic intent to merge estates, secure resources, and strengthen alliances between families. The focus was not on personal sentiments like love or affection but rather on the economic and social advantages that such unions could provide to both parties. Families sought to maintain or enhance their social standing and financial stability through these carefully orchestrated marriages, which were seen as essential for preserving family lineage and power.

While emotional connections and social mobility may have played roles in individual cases, the overarching motive for upper-class marriages in pre-industrial times was primarily based on economic factors and the objective of consolidating wealth.