Timeline of intersex history

Timeline of Intersex History

The Timeline of Intersex History traces the significant events, developments, and milestones in the understanding, treatment, and social perception of intersex individuals throughout history. Intersex people are those who do not fit the typical definitions for male or female bodies. This history is complex, involving shifts in medical practices, legal frameworks, and societal attitudes.

Ancient Civilizations

The existence and recognition of intersex individuals can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In many cultures, intersex people were seen through a variety of lenses, ranging from spiritual reverence to social ostracization.

• In Ancient Greece, intersex individuals were sometimes associated with mythological figures and deities who embodied traits of both genders.
• Ancient Rome's legal system acknowledged the existence of intersex people, categorizing them under the hermaphroditus term, though their social status varied greatly.

Middle Ages to 18th Century

During the Middle Ages, the understanding and treatment of intersex individuals were heavily influenced by the prevailing religious and cultural norms of the time.

• In Europe, the Christian Church's influence often led to the marginalization and persecution of intersex people, associating their existence with sin or witchcraft.

19th Century

The 19th century marked the beginning of a more scientific and medical approach to understanding intersex conditions, moving away from purely religious or superstitious explanations.

• The term "hermaphroditism" was used in medical literature to describe individuals with physical characteristics of both sexes.
• Advances in medical science led to the first attempts to classify and diagnose intersex conditions.

20th Century

The 20th century saw significant developments in the medical treatment and social perception of intersex individuals.

• The John Money era introduced the concept of gender identity and advocated for early surgical intervention to assign intersex infants a specific gender.
• The latter part of the century saw the rise of intersex activism, challenging the medical model and advocating for the rights and recognition of intersex people.

21st Century

The 21st century has been characterized by a growing recognition of intersex rights and a shift towards a more inclusive and rights-based approach to intersex issues.

• International organizations, including the United Nations, have recognized the rights of intersex individuals, advocating against discrimination and non-consensual medical interventions.
• Many countries have begun to recognize the legal rights of intersex people, including options for gender markers on official documents.

Key Milestones

• 2006: The first International Intersex Forum was held, marking a significant step in the global intersex rights movement.
• 2013: Malta became the first country to outlaw non-consensual medical interventions on intersex minors.
• 2015: The United States issued its first intersex birth certificate, recognizing a non-binary gender option.

See Also

• Gender identity
• LGBT history
• Medical ethics