Matriarchy is a social system where women hold primary power and authority in roles such as leadership, moral authority, and control of property. In a matriarchal society, lineage and inheritance often pass through the female line, meaning that family ties and wealth are traced through mothers rather than fathers. This structure can lead to a different set of social norms and values compared to patriarchal systems, where men typically dominate. In many cultures, matriarchs are respected figures who guide families and communities. Examples of matriarchal societies can be found among the Minangkabau in Indonesia and the Iroquois in North America, where women play crucial roles in decision-making and social organization.