In early societies, the rules of marriage were often deeply rooted in cultural and religious beliefs, as well as social and economic considerations. While the specifics varied across different regions and civilizations, there were some common patterns that emerged. Here is a detailed explanation of how the rules of marriage were followed in early societies:

**1. Arranged Marriages:**
Arranged marriages were prevalent in many early societies, where the decision of whom to marry was made by the families involved, rather than the individuals themselves. This practice was driven by the need to maintain social and economic stability, forge alliances between families or tribes, and preserve cultural or religious traditions.

**2. Endogamy and Exogamy:**
Endogamy refers to the practice of marrying within one's own social, cultural, or religious group, while exogamy involves marrying outside of one's group. These rules were often strictly followed to preserve social cohesion, reinforce social hierarchies, or avoid incestuous relationships. For example, in ancient Egypt, pharaohs were required to marry within their royal family to maintain their divine bloodline.

**3. Dowry and Bride Price:**
In many early societies, the exchange of gifts or payment played a significant role in marriage. Dowries, given by the bride's family, were common in societies where women were considered the property of their fathers. In contrast, bride prices, paid by the groom's family, were prevalent in societies where women held higher status. These practices aimed to establish the economic security of the bride and her future offspring.

**4. Polygamy and Monogamy:**
Polygamy, the practice of having multiple spouses, was widespread in many early societies. It was often associated with wealth and power, allowing men to have multiple wives for political alliances, economic reasons, or to increase their status. However, monogamy, the practice of having one spouse, also existed in some early societies, especially among commoners.

**5. Rituals and Ceremonies:**
Marriage rituals and ceremonies varied greatly among early societies. These ceremonies typically involved religious or cultural practices, such as exchanging vows, performing rituals to invoke blessings, or formalizing the union through symbolic acts. These rituals served to legitimize the marriage, create a sense of community, and reinforce social norms.

**6. Divorce and Widowhood:**
While divorce was generally discouraged in early societies, it was allowed in some cases. The rules and procedures for divorce varied, but in many cases, it required the involvement of community leaders or religious authorities. Widowhood was also treated differently in different societies, with widows sometimes expected to remarry or face social and economic challenges.

Overall, the rules of marriage in early societies were influenced by a combination of cultural, religious, social, and economic factors. They aimed to promote stability, maintain social order, preserve cultural traditions, and ensure the continuation of family lines. These rules played a crucial role in shaping the institution of marriage and the dynamics of early societies.