Family Fortunes.

The article explores the popular myth that Great Britain had a period of domestic stability and happiness prior to 1960. It considers differences in marriage laws and rights in the modern period between England, Wales, Ireland, and Scotland, especially regarding divorce, domestic violence, and child custody. The author points out that British laws were established to protect animals and children from violence long before laws were enacted to protect wives from spousal abuse. Other historical subjects considered include access to divorce, the government's policies towards the marriage of armed forces personnel, and the church's attitudes towards cohabitation, divorce, and adultery.