A matriarchy and a matrilineage are essentially the same thing.

Actually, a matriarchy and a matrilineage are not the same thing.

A matriarchy refers to a social system or a form of governance in which women hold primary power, authority, and leadership roles. In a matriarchal society, women typically have more political, social, and economic power than men. They make decisions, govern society, and hold positions of importance in various aspects of life.

On the other hand, a matrilineage is a kinship system or a lineage that is traced through the female line. In matrilineal societies, descent, inheritance, and family ties are determined through the female lineage. Family names, property, and social status are often passed down from mothers to daughters in matrilineal cultures.

While both concepts involve women playing significant roles in society and family structures, they focus on different aspects. A matriarchy refers to the overall power dynamics and social structure, while a matrilineage refers to the transmission of lineage and kinship through the female line.