Why Marriage?: The History Shaping Today's Debate Over Gay Equality

Rating:
Summary: Terrific
Review: A riveting analysis of the question of gay marriage that casts light on both its social and historical implications, placing the gay rights movement in the context of comparable 20th century movements defending and promoting the rights of blacks and women.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderful context setting for current struggle
Review: As an activist, I agree with the author that we must understand our history in order to fully grasp what is currently going on. The book gives a snapshot of the various changes in society that have brought us to this momentous time.

Rating:
Summary: A history of how marriage became a key goal in GLBT politics
Review: This book is an extraordinary exploration of the history of the modern Queer rights movement, and how same-sex marriage came to be a central issue in the past few years.

Chauncey writes history with the skill of a good novelist; the book flows brilliantly. Should be mandatory reading for every college student, legislator and judge in the country.