The concept of dating really began at the turn of the 20th century. Prior to the late early 1900s, courtship was a much more private, unemotional affair. However, this began to change in the early years of the 20th century, when couples began to go out together in public and unsupervised.

What is the origin of dating?

Etymology. The word dating entered the American language during the 1920s. Prior to that, courtship was a matter of family and community interest. Starting around the time of the Civil War, courtship became a private matter for couples.