Manipulation and Dishonest Signals

Abstract

The term “mail-order bride” originated on the American frontier in the nineteenth century. At that time, the number of men on the frontier far outnumbered the number of available women, and lonely farmers and ranchers would seek wives from “Back East” by placing ads in newspapers and magazines. Interested women would write back and send photographs, and the couple did not usually meet in person until the woman showed up for her wedding. Show more