Primogeniture

Definition

Primogeniture is a system of inheritance in which the eldest son in a family has the exclusive right to inherit his parents' estate in full. This practice has historically influenced social stratification by concentrating wealth and power within certain familial lines over generations.

Related terms

Inheritance: The process through which assets, titles, debts, rights, and obligations are transferred from one generation to another upon the death of an individual.

Social Stratification:

The hierarchical arrangement of individuals within a society based on factors such as wealth, income, race, education, and power.

Aristocracy:

A form of government or social class where privilege is given to individuals based on hereditary factors, often supported by systems like primogeniture