The book investigates the origins and early development of the homosexual rights movement in Europe and North America. It details the coining of the term 'homosexual' in 1869 and its subsequent use in advocating for rights, tracing the movement's activities from 1897 until its suppression by Nazism and Stalinism in the 1930s. The authors draw upon extensive resources to illuminate the history of key figures, their allies, and their adversaries during this formative period.

This work meticulously reconstructs a largely overlooked period in the history of homosexual rights, providing a detailed account of early activism and the challenges faced. The authors' careful research uncovers the contributions of pioneers and the opposition they encountered, offering a vital corrective to the common perception that the movement has no significant early history. The book serves as a foundational text for understanding the long struggle for LGBTQ+ rights.