ultimogeniture
Quick Summary
Ultimogeniture is a system of inheritance where the youngest child inherits the estate. This practice, also known as "junior right," is contrasted with primogeniture, where the eldest son inherits.12
The primary motivation behind ultimogeniture, like primogeniture, is to keep an estate whole and intact, preventing the division of land into parcels too small for farming, especially among agricultural populations with limited land. While strict ultimogeniture is rare, a common form involves the youngest son inheriting the responsibility of managing the estate and resolving disputes. In some cases, elder sons might be compensated with other privileges or material advantages. This system has also sometimes led to territorial expansion as younger sons, not inheriting land, sought their fortunes elsewhere.2
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