Matrilineal
An individual's family membership that derives from their mother's lineage
Real World Example
In history before 1500, many societies, like some Native American tribes and African communities, used matrilineal lineage to determine family ties and inheritance through the mother's side. This system was important for maintaining property and social structures, especially when women played central roles in agriculture and community life. It responded to the need for clear inheritance rules and stable family organization. Today, matrilineal systems still matter because they influence how some families pass down names, property, and traditions, which can affect identity and community roles. For example, in some Jewish communities, religious identity is traditionally passed down through the mother, impacting personal and cultural identity.
