Concubinage is a social arrangement where a man and a woman live together in a long-term relationship without being legally married. This practice has existed in various cultures throughout history and often involves a recognized partnership, though it lacks the formal status of marriage. Concubines may have specific rights and responsibilities, but these can vary widely depending on cultural and legal contexts. In many societies, concubinage has been associated with polygamy, where a man may have multiple concubines alongside a legal wife. The children born from concubinage may have different legal standings compared to those born within marriage, affecting their inheritance and social status. This arrangement has been observed in historical contexts, such as in the Roman Empire and among certain Indigenous cultures.