On the Historical Roots of Gender Norms: Evidence from Matrilineal Societies in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract This paper explores the historical origins and contemporary consequences of matrilineality, an informal institution in which wealth is inherited through the maternal line, in Sub-Saharan Africa. Exploiting variations in agroclimatic conditions among ethnic group territories, the analysis shows that matrilineal societies prevailed in regions suitable for extensive agriculture without animal-husbandry, a resource environment that confers greater benefits to daughters than to sons, as suggested by anthropological theories. Analyzing data from over 500,000 women within countries, the study demonstrates that women of matrilineal origin are more empowered within the family sphere today and more likely to independently own immovable property such as land. However, they tend to work and live close to the land they inherited, limiting their social mobility and educational attainment. The results suggest two channels shaping women’s contemporary socioeconomic status: geography through historical land resources and informal institutions through the persistence of matrilineality. These findings highlight the need not only to account for formal institutions, but also to address the deep-rooted cultural norms that continue to shape gender dynamics today.