To Have and to Hold: American Influences on the Rise of the Love-Based Marriage in the Islamic World

Capstone Thesis in History, Northeastern University

Advised by Dr. Ilham Khuri-Makdisi, History

This paper examines the impact of American romantic ideals on the evolution of love-based marriage in the Islamic world from the late 19th century to the present. It explores how American feminist and cultural values, especially through media like Disney, shaped perceptions of love and marriage in the Middle East. Key figures like Egyptian philosopher Qasim Amin merged Western feminist thought with local values, advocating for women's rights. Contemporary perspectives, revealed through surveys and interviews, highlight a generational divide influenced by globalization. The study concludes that while American ideals play a significant role, traditional and modern views on marriage coexist in a complex dialogue.