The Marriage Law of 1950 was the first basic law promulgated after the founding of the People’s Republic of China. The law put an end to the old feudal marriage system, established the principle of free choice of marriage partners, and promoted equality between the sexes and the liberation of women. In 1980, China passed a new marriage law, adding further provisions to promote family planning and protect the rights of women, children and old people. The 1980 law also clarified procedures and conditions for marriage and divorce, and contained detailed provisions regarding property relations within marriage. The law was once again revised in 2001.