The history of censorship mechanisms regulating queer expression and enforcing heteronormative social norms dates back to ancient times when homosexuality was considered a taboo in most societies around the world. In many cultures, same-sex relationships were criminalized and punishable by death or severe penalties.
Some civilizations such as Ancient Greece and Rome accepted homosexuality as an integral part of their culture, though they still faced legal restrictions.
In medieval Europe, laws against sodomy became stricter and harsher, leading to widespread persecution and execution of individuals caught engaging in same-sex relationships. The Church played a significant role in promoting these anti-homosexual attitudes, which continued into modern times through religious institutions' influence on public policies.
During the Enlightenment era, there was a more tolerant attitude towards homosexuality among intellectuals who believed that sexual desire should be free from moral judgment.
This shift did not last long, and homophobia resurfaced during the Victorian Era, fueled by fears of social decay caused by "unnatural" behaviors. The British Parliament passed laws criminalizing homosexual acts in 1861 and 1885, with similar legislation enacted in other countries like France and Germany.
In the early 20th century, the Nazi Party took power in Germany and launched a campaign against LGBTQ+ people, leading to their persecution and murder during World War II. After the war, several European countries began decriminalizing homosexuality, but it remained illegal in many others until the late 20th century.
The United States has a complex history regarding queer expression and censorship, with laws against sodomy enforced at state level since colonial times. In 1957, the Supreme Court upheld laws banning homosexual behavior as indecent or obscene under the Comstock Act. This led to the rise of gay rights activism, culminating in the Stonewall riots in 1969. The Gay Liberation movement demanded equal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals and challenged society's heteronormative norms.
Progressive attitudes have emerged worldwide, with many countries legalizing same-sex marriage and adopting more inclusive policies towards gender identity.
Censorship mechanisms still exist, mainly through media control and advertising regulations that limit representation of non-heterosexual relationships. Homophobic rhetoric continues to be widespread in some societies, leading to physical violence and harassment against queer individuals.