This article analyzes the norms of preference in the choice of partners by racial group in accordance with the definition of such groups in surveys undertaken by the IBGE (Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics), based on information supplied by the PNADs (National Survey by Residence Samples) of 1995 and 1996. Conjugal bonds were divided into two types: endogamy and exogamy, according to color categories of the partners. In the first part of the article, the author describes general characteristics of unions by color for the whole of Brazil and by region. In the second part, two aspects of the composition of unions according to the color of the partners are mentioned: the different trends for matrimonial endogamies and the marital selectivity in exogamic behavior. The article makes a more detailed study of the formation of inter-racial unions and marriages in combination with some social aspects included therein. Thus, in order to estimate the degree of racial selectivity valid in conjugal selection, the proportion of unions formed within each color group was calculated based on PNAD 87 and 95 data. They are called endogamy rates and furnish basic material for the study.
Negroes; inter-racial marriage; conjugal choice; selectivity by color
