Which statement about same-sex marriage is true?

• A. Native Americans had same-sex marriages already when Columbus arrived.
• B. Same-sex marriages were common in Europe during the 15th century.
• C. Same-sex marriage became legal nationwide in the 19th century.
• D. There is no evidence of any same-sex marriages prior to modern times.

Answer: (A)

Historical evidence shows that many cultures recognized same-sex unions before modern times. In several Native American nations, unions between people of the same sex were acknowledged within the community and could function similarly to marriages, long before Europeans arrived. Ethnographic accounts and historical records show these partnerships were integrated into kinship networks and social life, depending on the tribe and era. That context makes the statement true.

The other options misstate historical patterns. In 15th‑century Europe, marriage was defined by heterosexual, religiously and legally recognized unions, not same‑sex marriages, so such unions weren’t considered common. The idea that same‑sex marriage became nationwide law in the 19th century is not accurate, as nationwide legalization did not occur then. And there is in fact evidence of same‑sex unions before modern times, so the last option is false.