3 Introduction This first chapter covers some of the background and history of gender diversity around the globe from the ancient world to the present. We begin the chapter with important terminology and a look at the evolution of words and definitions for trans, non-binary, and Two-Spirit people. Then, we explore ancient Indigenous cultures and the respect that they had for gender diversity—often honoring third-, fourth-, and fifth-gender identities. From the ancient world, we move to an exploration of the science of sexology, which created many of the ideas and terms that are still prevalent today in terms of trans, non- binary, and Two-Spirit people. Finally, the chapter will look at examples of laws, popular culture, and policies from various decades leading up to the current moment in trans, non-binary, and Two-Spirit history. Of particular note, there is an in-depth focus on the decade between 1959 and 1969 when many polit- ical actions in the United States advanced social and political change for trans, non-binary, and Two-Spirit people. This chapter is not meant to be exhaustive, but rather to give readers a sense of the breadth of the history of trans, non-binary, and Two-Spirit people. 1 Background and History Pictured are three hijras, whose gender identity rests outside of the gender binary. Hindu goddess Bahuchara Mata is known as a special deity to the hijras, who have existed in Indian culture for well over 4,000 years. (Alain Lauga /Dreamstime.com)
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