In the 20th century, expectations of courtship were transformed by the liberal social and sexual attitudes of the 1960s and 70s, which initiated a gradual levelling of the power balance between the sexes, and placed romantic love on a pedestal even above the necessity of marriage itself.

What was dating like in the early 1900s?

IN 1900, DATING COULD BE A FELONY. A young man and woman meeting in public, him buying her food, drink, and gifts: well, it was veritable prostitution in the eyes of authorities, and women could be arrested for it.

How has dating changed in the 21st century?

Technology and social norms have changed the way people date in the 21st century. While technology has made some aspects of dating more convenient, it has also made it a lot less personal. Millennials are waiting longer to get married, and are more comfortable with having sex without a long-term commitment.