What we call dating today, was a totally different idea in the 1880s. Although in the modern days the dating culture we follow consists of many features introduced back then.
Dating culture has evolved with the change of roles played by man and women in society and family. In the 1880s dating was considered as a mean of luxury not necessity.

Courtship and Dating

Back then courtship was a function taken place in the hugely decorated house of the women for eligible bachelors to mingle. But as people from the middle and lower class couldn’t afford it, they brought the courtship out in the public. And this is what we call dating today.

A mistaken belief

We have a misconception that in those days sex wasn’t on the table until marriage. Although most of the couples stayed away from sexual encounter before marriage doesn’t mean everyone did. For an example, in the 1770s the rate of premarital pregnancy rose as high as 30%. That’s when traditions like wedding ring that symbolized trust and love also white gown and white veil which represented purity were introduced.

Effects

Back in the 1880s the whole point of dating was to get to know each other before marriage. It’s also an important step to ensure a girl’s future as women had to rely on their families or husbands for their needs.

Today dating is considered as a necessary social activity. But still marriage remains as the ultimate goal. So, we can say that dating hasn’t actually changed that much as we think it has.