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.