This introductory volume examines the relationship between same-sex legal issues, public opinion, and legislation since the late 1800s and explores the ways in which the American legal system has advanced—and hindered—the civil rights of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender individuals. An extensive collection of important documents is provided, along with a glossary of key people, events, and concepts; a chronology; a table of cases cited; an annotated bibliography; and a comprehensive index.