Homosexuality

• Homosexuality in the 16th century

  Punishable by death. Penalty removed in 19th century but the law prohibited any sex between males.
• Who was convicted under the 19th century law that prohibited sex between men?

  Oscar Wilde - Sentenced to 2 years in prison.
• Homosexuality in 1950s


  Several high-profile arrests for acts of homosexuality indecency. Allowed open discussion for a change in law.
• Homosexuality in 1957


  Wolfenden Report published - laws were an impingement on civil liberty and the law shouldn't intrude into matters of personal morality.
• Homosexuality in 1967


  Decriminised in England and Wales; age of consent set at 21 years old for homosexuals.
• Homosexuality in 1994


  Age of consent for homosexuals lowered to 18 years old by the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994.
• Homosexuality in 2000


  Age of consent lowered to 16 by Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2000. Brought the practice of Homosexuality to be on equal terms with heterosexual sex. Various groups- Stonewall - campaigned for equal rights for same-sex couples.
• Homosexuality in 2004


  Civil partnerships were permitted as a result of the Civil Partnership Act 2004.
• Homosexuality in 2014


  Allowed first same-sex marriage under the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013.
• Laws on protecting homosexuality

  Criminal offence to discriminate against someone's sexuality, resulted from the Equality Act 2010. It is a hate crime.
• Reasons why views on Homosexuality have changed

  Cultural changes

  Less religious society

  Teachings of many religions say Homosexuality is wrong

  People generally do not fear or perhaps believe in God.