In New Hampshire, it is indeed illegal to marry your first cousin. The Granite State stands out as the only New England state to explicitly ban this type of marriage.
Legal Restrictions on Cousin Marriage in New Hampshire
New Hampshire law clearly states that marriage is not permitted between people who are related by blood as first cousins or in any more direct lineage. This prohibition extends to both male and female first cousins, regardless of age or other circumstances.
Comparison with Other States
While New Hampshire takes a firm stance against first-cousin marriages, the legal landscape across the United States varies significantly:
- 25 states have laws that explicitly prohibit marriages between first cousins.
- Some states allow first-cousin marriages only under specific conditions, such as when the couple is beyond childbearing age or if one party is infertile.
- Several states, including Alabama, Alaska, and Colorado, do not have explicit laws banning first-cousin marriages.
Historical Context
The opposition to first-cousin marriage in the United States has deep historical roots:
- It dates back to the Puritans in the 17th century.
- The first actual laws against first-cousin marriage appeared during the Civil War era, with Kansas being the first state to ban the practice in 1858.
- New Hampshire followed suit in the 1860s, along with several other states.
Reasons for the Ban
The prohibition on first-cousin marriages is often rooted in concerns about genetic risks and social taboos. Some key points to consider:
- A 2018 Columbia University study found that children of first cousins have a 4% to 7% probability of birth defects, compared to 3% to 4% for children of more distant relatives.
- Historical figures like Rev. Charles Brooks and Alexander Graham Bell influenced public opinion on the issue, citing concerns about potential birth defects and inherited conditions.
Exceptions and Nuances
While first-cousin marriages are banned, New Hampshire law does allow for some exceptions:
- First cousins once removed can legally wed in the state.
- Cousins through adoption are not allowed to marry in New Hampshire.
- The state does permit first cousins to live together and even have sexual relations, despite the marriage ban.
Global Perspective
It’s worth noting that the prohibition on first-cousin marriage is not universal:
- Only a handful of countries worldwide prohibit first-cousin marriages, including China, North and South Korea, and the Philippines.
- In many parts of the world, particularly in some Arab and South Asian countries, consanguineous marriages remain common and culturally accepted.
New Hampshire’s stance on first-cousin marriage aligns with a significant portion of the United States in prohibiting such unions. While the practice was once more common, changing social norms, increased mobility, and growing awareness of potential genetic risks have contributed to its decline and legal restrictions.
As with any matter involving family law, individuals with questions about marriage regulations should consult with legal professionals for the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Sources:
- https://wokq.com/is-it-legal-to-marry-your-first-cousin-new-hampshire/
- https://annualreport.mediclinic.com/post/states-where-cousin-marriage-is-legal
- https://www.voanews.com/a/can-kissing-cousins-wed-in-the-us-/4907000.html
- https://www.townofthornton.org/town-clerk/files/marriage-new-hampshire-information
