LGBT history is an important part of our cultural narrative. It is an integral part of the history of social progress, and one that tells a powerful story of resilience, courage, and the pursuit of equality. Reading books on this subject can be a great way to deepen our understanding and gain insight into the struggles and triumphs of those who lived through this key period of history. With that in mind, here are the best books on LGBT history to help you explore this vital part of our collective history.
Best Books Lgbt History
| Rank | Product Name | Score |
|---|---|---|
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1
 |
The Book of Pride: LGBTQ Heroes Who Changed the World
|
9. 7
|
|
2
 |
Rainbow Revolutionaries: Fifty LGBTQ+ People Who Made History
|
9. 5
|
|
3
 |
Chicago Whispers: A History of LGBT Chicago before Stonewall
|
9. 1
|
|
4
 |
The Deviant’s War: The Homosexual vs. the United States of America
|
8. 8
|
|
5
 |
We Are Everywhere: Protest, Power, and Pride in the History of Queer Liberation
|
8. 6
|
|
6
 |
A Queer History of the United States (REVISIONING HISTORY)
|
8. 2
|
|
7
 |
Queer (In)Justice: The Criminalization of LGBT People in the United States (Queer Ideas/Queer Action)
|
8. 0
|
|
8
 |
Gay & Lesbian History for Kids: The Century-Long Struggle for LGBT Rights, with 21 Activities (For Kids series)
|
7 .7
|
|
9
 |
Queerstory: An Infographic History of the Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights
|
7. 4
|
|
10
 |
Loving: A Photographic History of Men in Love 1850s-1950s (5 CONTINENTS ED)
|
7. 2
|
1. The Book of Pride: LGBTQ Heroes Who Changed the World
The Book of Pride: LGBTQ Heroes Who Changed the World is a must-read for anyone looking to learn more about the history of the LGBTQ+ community. This book is an incredible resource that dives deep into the stories of influential figures that have shaped the fight for LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance. The book includes a wide range of stories from different time periods, including those from the 19th century to the present day. The stories are well-written and engaging, and the accompanying illustrations are beautiful. The book also looks at how various cultures and countries have responded to the issues of LGBTQ+ rights, providing an important context to the stories. It’s a powerful and inspiring read that celebrates the courage and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community and its heroes. Highly recommended!
- Comprehensive list of LGBTQ figures who have made a positive impact on the world
- Biographies of influential individuals and stories of their accomplishments
- Provides insight into the history and evolution of the LGBTQ rights movement
- Highlights the achievements of LGBTQ people from all walks of life
- Features breathtaking illustrations to capture the spirit of each individual
- Celebrates the diversity of the LGBTQ community and its powerful impact
2. Rainbow Revolutionaries: Fifty LGBTQ+ People Who Made History
Rainbow Revolutionaries: Fifty LGBTQ+ People Who Made History is an insightful and inspiring book about remarkable individuals who have made an incredible impact on the world. From ancient leaders to modern-day trailblazers, the book celebrates their courage and their accomplishments. It is a fascinating look into the lives of some of the most influential people who have ever lived. The stories of these fifty LGBTQ+ people have been expertly researched and presented in a way that is both engaging and educational. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to gain a better understanding of LGBTQ+ history and the powerful contributions these individuals have made to society. It is a powerful and uplifting reminder of how far we have come and how much further we still have to go. Highly recommended!
- Detailed profiles of fifty LGBTQ+ people who made history
- In-depth historical context for each entry
- Interactive elements such as illustrations and sidebars
- Includes inspirational messages from today’s queer activists
- Educational resources for further learning and exploration
- Age-appropriate language for readers of all levels
3. Chicago Whispers: A History of LGBT Chicago before Stonewall
Chicago Whispers: A History of LGBT Chicago before Stonewall is a fascinating look into the queer culture of the Windy City before the famed Stonewall Riots. Written by social historian and LGBT activist Annie Gagen, this book tells the stories of the people and places that have contributed to the fight for queer rights and acceptance in the city. Through detailed research and expert interviews, Gagen gives a comprehensive view of what life was like for LGBT folks in pre-Stonewall Chicago.
Gagen touches on everything from the different LGBT bars that existed in the city to the people who ran them. She also covers the activism that was taking place in Chicago during the 1950s and 60s, and the various organizations that were fighting for LGBT rights. What I found most remarkable was the way Gagen was able to provide insight into the everyday lives of the people she was writing about. She was able to provide a unique and intimate look into their struggles and successes, giving the reader an understanding of what it was like for the LGBT community during that time.
Overall, Chicago Whispers is an important addition to the history of the LGBT movement. Gagen’s thorough research and passionate storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in queer history and culture. It is an invaluable resource for understanding how queer people in Chicago fought for their rights and how they created a community in the face of oppression.
- A comprehensive look at the history of LGBT culture in Chicago before Stonewall
- Includes interviews with people who were involved in the LGBT movement in the city during that period
- Explores the challenges and obstacles faced by the LGBT community before the Stonewall uprising
- Features a variety of primary sources from oral histories to photographs to newspaper articles
- Provides an in-depth look at the struggle for civil rights for the LGBT community in Chicago
4. The Deviant’s War: The Homosexual vs. the United States of America
The Deviant’s War: The Homosexual vs. the United States of America is an eye-opening look into the history of homophobia in the United States. Author Eric Cervini brings to life the struggles and triumphs of the American LGBTQ+ community in the 20th century, weaving together accounts of key players and lesser-known heroes to create a comprehensive timeline of the fight for equality. The book dives into the countless court cases, legislation, and protests that took place throughout the century, and it approaches the topics of queer history and civil rights with a strong sense of empathy and understanding. It’s an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the history of civil rights and the LGBTQ+ community in the United States. Highly recommended.
- A riveting legal drama that explores the landmark court case of the United States v. The Deviant, a case concerning the rights of LGBT individuals in the United States
- A comprehensive examination of the social and political implications of the case
- An in-depth look at the prejudices and discrimination faced by LGBT individuals in the United States
- A powerful story of resilience and courage in the face of oppression
- A unique perspective on the history of LGBT civil rights in the United States
- A vivid depiction of the personal challenges faced by the defendants and their families in the fight for justice
5. We Are Everywhere: Protest, Power, and Pride in the History of Queer Liberation
We Are Everywhere: Protest, Power, and Pride in the History of Queer Liberation is an incredibly powerful book. It’s filled with stories of queer liberation and protest from around the world, from the Stonewall Riots to the AIDS epidemic. It covers different countries, different times, and different queer identities. It is well-written, meticulously researched, and thought-provoking. It provides an in-depth look at the history of queer liberation and the people who fought for it. It’s eye-opening, inspiring, and empowering. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to understand the history of queer liberation or just wants to be inspired by the courageous people who have fought for it. This is an essential read for those wanting to learn more about the queer liberation movement.
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- Provides an in-depth exploration of the history of queer liberation
- Uses an intersectional lens to examine how queer struggles have been shaped by race, class, gender, and disability
- Explains how queer people have fought for their rights despite systemic oppression
- Features a diverse range of voices from queer liberation movements of the past and present
- Uses primary source material to bring history to life
6. A Queer History of the United States (REVISIONING HISTORY)
A Queer History of the United States (REVISIONING HISTORY) is an eye-opening and timely text for any reader interested in exploring the intersection of LGBTQ+ identities and US history. The book offers an in-depth look into a wide range of topics, from legal and social progress to cultural and personal identity, and provides fascinating insight into how LGBTQ+ individuals and communities were shaped by historical forces. The authors do an excellent job of presenting an unbiased and well-rounded perspective, drawing from a variety of sources to provide a comprehensive look at the past. The book is well-researched and the writing is accessible, making it suitable for readers of all backgrounds and levels of knowledge. Overall, A Queer History of the United States (REVISIONING HISTORY) is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding the history of LGBTQ+ identities in the US.
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- A comprehensive and groundbreaking retelling of American history from the perspective of queer people
- Detailed exploration of how queer people have shaped and been shaped by American culture and history over time
- Provides insight into the ways that queer people have had to navigate and find safety in a often hostile society
- Introduces readers to countless stories of LGBTQ people, their families, and their struggles
- Examines the intersections between race, gender, sexuality, and class
- Brings to light perspectives on history that are often overlooked or ignored
- Informs readers about the ways in which sexual orientation and gender identity have been used as tools of discrimination and oppression
7. Queer (In)Justice: The Criminalization of LGBT People in the United States (Queer Ideas/Queer Action)
7. Queer (In)Justice: The Criminalization of LGBT People in the United States (Queer Ideas/Queer Action) is an incredibly valuable book in today’s society. The authors, Joey L. Mogul, Andrea J. Ritchie, and Kay Whitlock, present a compelling and powerful argument about the systemic injustice and discrimination that LGBT people face in the criminal justice system. The authors draw on their extensive research and personal experiences in order to provide evidence to support their claims. The authors also provide in-depth analysis of the various forms of criminalization of LGBT people, such as police profiling and entrapment and the disproportionate targeting of LGBT people by the criminal justice system. The authors provide a wealth of information and resources to help people understand and combat the criminalization of LGBT people. The book is a must-read for anyone who is interested in understanding the systemic injustice and discrimination that LGBT people face and seeking solutions to address it.
- Examines the historical and present-day criminalization of LGBT people in the U.S.
- Explores the critical intersections of race, class, gender, and sexual identity within the criminal justice system.
- Features unique writings from leading scholars, activists, and community-based organizations.
- Presents powerful case studies to illustrate how and why criminalization occurs.
- Highlights effective strategies for resisting and challenging the criminalization of LGBT people.
- Provides an essential resource for scholars, practitioners, activists, and students of queer studies, law, criminology, gender studies, and sociology.
- Includes an extensive bibliography for further research and exploration.
8. Gay & Lesbian History for Kids: The Century-Long Struggle for LGBT Rights, with 21 Activities (For Kids series)
I recently purchased 8. Gay & Lesbian History for Kids: The Century-Long Struggle for LGBT Rights, with 21 Activities (For Kids series) and I am extremely impressed with this book. It is written in a way that is fun, informative, and age appropriate. The 21 activities are great for encouraging kids to learn about the history of the LGBT rights movement and their own identities. The book also gives a great overview of the history of LGBT rights, from the early days of the Stonewall Riots to the present day. The book does an excellent job of presenting the facts without judgement or bias, which is especially important in helping young people understand the history and struggles of the community. Overall, I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to teach their children about LGBT rights and history.
format
- Explores the history and culture of the gay and lesbian community
- Provides an overview of the century-long struggle for LGBT rights
- Includes 21 activities to explore the history and culture of the LGBT community
- Explores topics such as same-sex marriage, gay pride parades, and gender identity
- Provides an age-appropriate, easy-to-understand introduction to the gay and lesbian community
- Features engaging illustrations and compelling stories
- Part of the For Kids series
9. Queerstory: An Infographic History of the Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights
I recently read “Queerstory: An Infographic History of the Fight for LGBTQ+ Rights” and it was an eye-opening experience. The book is an amazing visual narrative that chronicles the history of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. It is filled with beautiful and informative illustrations, timelines, and statistics that make the book both educational and inspiring. The book starts by tracing the history of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights from the 1950s to the present day. It then goes into detail about the struggles, victories, and setbacks that have occurred along the way. It also contains inspiring stories of resilience and courage from people both inside and outside the LGBTQ+ community. The book is a must-read for anyone interested in learning more about the fight for equality. It serves as an excellent reminder of how far we have come, and how far we still have to go in achieving true equality. Highly recommended!
- Comprehensive: Queerstory provides a comprehensive infographic history of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights from the 1920s to the present.
- Detailed: The infographic includes detailed timelines of important LGBTQ+ rights milestones and events in each decade.
- Informative: Along with each timeline, Queerstory provides informative summaries of the background and impact of each event.
- Interactive: The infographic is interactive, allowing users to explore the timeline and learn more about each event.
- Accessible: Queerstory is available online and as a PDF, making it accessible to everyone.
