A Presence in the Past: A Transgender Historiography

Abstract

This article provides an overview of the literature written about individuals who are referred to today as transgender people, with a focus on material from the United States. Influential studies are discussed, particularly works by trans people. The article concludes by suggesting useful directions for future research, including the need to document trans political, legal, and cultural campaigns; considering a greater range of transgender people and experiences; and specifically examining the lives of trans people of color.