Same Sex Love 1700-1957: A History and Research Guide

by Gill Rossini

Family history is often seen as the stories of people who were part of a traditional family unit, married to someone of the opposite gender, had children and lived their lives as 'normally' as possible. But what of the relatives who could not accept that this was the life for them, and were attracted to same-sex partners? Was it possible for them to live their life as they wished to, with their chosen partner and without hindrance, ridicule or attack? Would they be breaking the law in doing so, and how would family and society react if they were found out? Some of those concerned married and had children, like the majority, and buried their feelings in the bustle of everyday life; others stayed single but abstained from relationships altogether, as a way of keeping safe. A number managed to live openly and proudly as themselves, challenging the prejudices and misconceptions of the day. This is the story of all those people, the brave, the discreet, the frightened, the loving and the loved, as well as love against all the odds; more than likely, it is a story that can be found in every family history. Told in an empathetic and clear-sighted way, this is the first history of same-sex relationships aimed specifically at family historians and offers valuable insights into the lives of those who were often seen as outcasts. It includes research guidance for genealogists researching this often-neglected aspect of family history, and offers invaluable insights into the families, society and culture they lived in.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Queer, LGBT

182 pages, Paperback

Published September 11, 2017

Reviews

[Lili · Rating 5 out of 5]

From Netgalley for Review

This book is a treasure for any lover of history who frequently gets frustrated by how same sex love gets pushed to the back-burner, there is of course a lot of speculation, but there are plenty of actual accounts that get ignored. Representation in history is very important! It is not just stories of people in love, it tells the social and legal constraints of these people in a well researched and respective way. Definitely give this book a read!

[Katie Lumsden · Rating 4 out of 5]

A thoroughly interesting and accessible history book - well worth a read and one I'd highly recommend.

[Igrowastreesgrow · Rating 3 out of 5]

Will update with review later.

[Nicki Markus · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Same Sex Love 1700-1957, Gill Rossini offers readers an overview of LGBT history. She considers the lives of those interested in pursuing LGBT relationships across the centuries, along with the legal and social restraints they faced. To do this, she considers court cases, news reports, and the correspondence and experiences of famous figures, and she creates an interesting study that will benefit a diverse readership. While clearly aimed at family history researchers, this book will also appeal to social historians (particularly those with an LGBT-focus) and authors of LGBT historical fiction who are looking for authenticity in their tales.

I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley.

[Emma Goldman · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting and comprehensive account of both the lives and the restrictions on same sex relationships from 1700 to 1957. The law against male-male relationships, with severe penalties on conviction, was enforced throughout the period, although wealthy or aristocratic men might be able to evade the consequences by leaving the country, or through their own or family influence. Following the prosecution and prison sentence of Oscar Wilde, the situation grew worse, and there is evidence of blackmail regularly occurring, sometimes by deliberate seduction of gay men by criminals.
In the 20th century, gay film and theatre actors were frequently accepted within their occupation, but had to conceal their preferences from the wider world, fearing, with justification, the loss of both income, reputation, and their work. Changing scientific/medical opinions of the basis for same sex orientation also produced quasi-scientific 'cures', which was the fate of Alan Turing, who broke the 'Enigma' code during WW2. Such cures included physically violent procedures, as well as psychiatric treatments.
Changing public perceptions, and social and class developments, gradually furthered the move for legalisation.
Throughout the same period, female-female relationships had never been illegal, viewed generally as a 'natural' affection between women. There are instances of female cohabiting couples in which one assumed male dress being either accepted or overlooked by their neighbours and families. Older unmarried women had always been accepted if they chose to live together.
Again,class and status, as well as influence and wealth, affected public perceptions. There are instances of damages being awarded to men whose wives left them for a female partner, though the only available penalty for the women involved was moral condemnation and publicity.
The final section of the book provides guidance on terminology, research methods and available resources,useful to any individual wishing to investigate one of their own family line, or for more general information.

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5. Best interessant.

[Ana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I already knew a lot of things mentioned but I still learnt a lot of new information. Highly recommend it to anyone that wants to learn more queer history.

[Clare Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent resource, written in an easily digestible manner