Using marriage as "a social machine" penalizes the unmarried.

Some polygamous families use a system of multiple divorce and legal marriage as a loophole in order to avoid committing a criminal act.

In the 13th century, the French kings started to use marriage to extend their influence into the south of France.

This was one of the principal reasons the Inca were able to use marriage to subjugate them.

He often uses marriage and children in his comedy.

Families tried to use marriage as a way to increase their social standing or, among wealthier groups, to increase one's influence and holdings.

Using marriage to climb the social ladder has been used throughout history and in each economic class.

Of course, it may not be fair to use marriage as the measure of a happy outcome.