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Married Women’s Property Act

The Married Women’s Property Act, first enacted in the late 19th century in various countries, allows married women to own and control property in their own right, separate from their husbands. Prior to this law, a married woman typically lost legal ownership of her property upon marriage. The Act aimed to provide women with legal rights over their income, inheritance, and personal assets, enabling them to engage in contracts and manage their financial affairs independently. This legislation was a significant step towards gender equality in property rights and contributed to the broader women's rights movement.