KNOWhomo

Happy St Patrick’s Day / Weekend All!

LGBTQ* History You Might Not Know

An IRISHMAN was the FIRST person given credit for using the term “lesbian” in modern English form. William King published his book of poetry, ‘THE TOAST’ in 1732. It was a satirical collection of poems addressing Dublin sociaslites. At one point, King wrote “lesbian love,” — which is the first recorded modern use of “lesbian” to cannote same-sex relations.

Historical Information?

St. Patrick’s Day was first celebrated in Ireland in the early 17th century and became an official holiday in Ireland in 1903.

Personal Note:

This Irish gal sends a kiss to her English lass on the other side of the country. Be safe and Happy St. Patrick’s Day -Rebecca

(shirt source)

LGBTQ* People You Should Know

The Lavender Leaders of the Emerald Isle

-Irish LGBTQ* Individuals You Should Know-

Kate O’Brien (1897-1974)

Born in Limerick, receiving her education at University College in Dublin, O’Brien parted ways from her husband as she became more comfortable with her lesbian identity. Her first novel, Without My Cloak (1931), won the Hawthornden and James Tait Black prizes in literature. Her following novels would later focus on the struggle of Catholic views and individual freedom for women when paired against the role of family and maintaining society’s standards.

Oscar Wilde (1854-1900)

Still considered one of the wittiest playwrights of all time, Oscar Wilde made a name for himself with his quick-paced, sarcastic works which mimicked the very patrons who drove to purchase tickets.

Wilde is often remembered most for his trial. 

 Wilde sued the marquees of Queensberry after Queensberry called Wilde a sodomite (Wilde was having an affair with Queensberry’s son, Lord Douglas). After taking Queensberry to court for libel (and after losing the trial) the government then came after Wilde for “crimes against nature.” Wilde would go on to lose again, being sentenced to two years of hard labor. 

Sir Roger Casement (1864-1916)

Casement was actively involved in the nationalist movement from a young age. He joined the Irish military during WWI and assisted in securing aid for the Irish through the war. 

Casement is most known for his writings. In a series of his work, he brought light to the plantation owners in the Congo and the acts carried out against unrepresented workers. He is also known for his diaries, where he chronicled his love affairs with men throughout his travels and the world.

Casement was hanged for treason, seeking Independence for all and refusing to be shamed by his homosexual history.