The Impact of Children on MarriageThe 21st century has changed dramatically since the 1900s. One of the many things that has changed is the tremendous impact of children on marriages. Children can either become a couple or realize how beautiful life is. Or, a child may show their partner how completely opposite they are. In the last century, children have had a greater impact on the success or breakdown of a marriage. The 20th century is known for couples who married in their early 20s. ("History of Marriage in America: 1800 and Early 1900s." HubPages. Np, nd Web. March 1, 2014. .) Children did not have a negative effect on marriages at the time. The reason is that when the husband was the main breadwinner, the wife stayed at home to take care of the house and the children. Although they were growing up, the children were very independent at the time. The United States murder rate by year, 1900-2010 was the lowest. - Democratic Underground Np, nd Web March 2.. 2014.