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October 3 is National Boyfriend Day, a day to celebrate the pre-marital romantic bond between a man and a woman; in today's society, it can also describe the romantic relationship between two men. This event simply appeared on the internet in 2014 and gained wide acceptance in 2016.
Boyfriend is an informal honorarium. The term "boyfriend" originates in English, dating back to the 19th Century. Initially, "boy" denoted a young male, while "friend" signified a close acquaintance. Over time, the combined term began to describe a woman's male companion, especially when the relationship held romantic or intimate implications. In modern times, the gender-ubiquitous word "partner" often replaces the word "boyfriend."
Evolution of Dating in Western Culture
Courtship in the 18th and 19th centuries: Before the concept of dating took hold, Western societies practiced courtship. This formal process involved a young man seeking permission from a woman's parents to court her. The intention was marriage, and activities took place in the family setting.
The Rise of "Calling" in the Late 19th Century: As urban areas grew, the practice of "calling" emerged. Young men would visit women in their homes, where they'd engage in supervised conversations in the parlor.
The Advent of Modern Dating in the Early 20th Century: The cultural shifts following World War I and the popularization of the automobile ushered in significant cultural changes in the 1920s. Unsupervised dating became the norm. With more leisure opportunities, couples began meeting outside the home in social settings like movie theaters and dance halls.
Post-World War II and the 'Baby Boom': The end of World War II brought a return to traditional values. The rate of marriages surged, and there was an emphasis on starting families.
The Sexual Revolution and the '60s and '70s: With the arrival of birth control and legalized abortion, a cultural shift in attitudes toward sex led to more liberal dating behaviors. Relationships became less formal, and "hooking up" gained traction.
The '80s and '90s: This period saw a resurgence of traditional dating norms amidst rising concerns about AIDS. At the same time, personal advertisements in newspapers and early online dating began to emerge.
The Digital Age and 21st Century: The rise of the internet and smartphones led to a boom in online dating. Platforms like Match.com and apps like Tinder and Bumble transformed how couples meet. The idea of "swiping" left or right became ingrained in dating culture.
Throughout history, economic factors, technological advancements, and social mores have influenced the concept of dating. Today, dating in Western culture blends tradition, gender fluidity, and modernity, influenced by personal choice, cultural trends, and technology.
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