illegity

Illegity is a term that historically referred to the status of being born out of wedlock, a condition also known as illegitimacy. This legal and social status carried significant implications for individuals in many societies, affecting their rights, inheritance, and social standing. Historically, children born outside of marriage were often deemed illegitimate and could face various disadvantages. These could include limitations on their ability to inherit property from their parents, a lack of legal recognition or rights, and social stigma.

The legal framework surrounding illegitimacy varied greatly across different jurisdictions and time periods. In some legal systems, illegitimate children were considered to have no legal father and were often solely under the guardianship or responsibility of their mother. This could lead to difficulties in establishing paternity and enforcing child support obligations. Socially, the label of illegitimacy could result in ostracization and limited opportunities for education, marriage, and employment.

In contemporary legal systems, the concept of illegitimacy has largely been abolished or significantly reformed. Modern laws tend to focus on the best interests of the child and aim to ensure equal rights and protections for all children, regardless of their parents' marital status. This shift reflects evolving social attitudes towards family structures and a greater emphasis on individual rights. The term "illegitimacy" itself is now considered outdated and often offensive in many contexts, with "born out of wedlock" or similar phrasing being preferred when discussing historical legal distinctions.