Marriage among the Gypsies of Turkey

Despite the fact that Gypsies have always been traveling communities, it is difficult for them to preserve their own customs and traditions forever. In the light of studies and research about Gypsies so far, conclusions could be formed that the first and foremost maintaining factor is marriage that can be idealized and practiced differently among Gypsies around the world. This work introduces the image and practice of marriage of the Gypsies of Turkey. It has been found out that endogamy is especially very common among the Gypsies of Turkey since it is considered to be the only way of protecting their communal life. Within the general concept of the endogamic marriage, these types have been discussed under such headings as “purchasing,” “exchanging,” and “abducting.” Other issues which have been raised in the study, are polygamy and divorce which are also very common among the Turkish Gypsies. Finally, the significance of marriage for the families and having children as a result have been analyzed.