The history of online dating services

In a relatively short span of time, online dating has transformed from a last-ditch effort for the desperate to a serious contender in the search for love. Almost everyone can name a couple who met on a website or app. Cupid has been supplanted by swipes. But as thoroughly modern as this method may seem, its roots stretch back centuries. We have always sought out new ways to find love, sex, and companionship.

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When I was in school, I was never the biggest fan of history unless it was something I cared about. English royalty, the Salem Witch Trials, Greek mythology? Yes, yes, and yes. The Crusades, the Mayan Civilization, Confucius?

This is a timeline of online dating services that also includes broader events related to technology-assisted dating not just online dating. Where there are similar services, only major ones or "the first of its kind" are listed. Classifieds made a comeback in America in the s and s, encouraged by the era's inclination toward individualism and social exhibitionism. It was very important to be 'self-aware.