Trans+ History Week 2025, founded by Marty Davies, emphasizes the historical existence of trans individuals, countering the misconception that being trans is a modern trend promoted by certain conservative figures. The article explores the diverse experiences of historical gender-diverse figures, notably Elagabalus, a Roman emperor who reigned from 218AD. Elagabalus is depicted as embracing feminine dress and seeking gender-affirmation surgery, reflecting the complexity of historical trans identities. This evidence serves to dispel myths about trans lives being new, illustrating the long-standing presence and variety of gender-diverse experiences across cultures.
Elagabalusâaka Marcus Aurelius Antoninusâbecame emperor in 218AD at just 14 years old. They frequently copied the dress and manners of women and wore makeup.
Just as there is no single trans experience or journey, these five individuals prove there was no one way to be gender diverse in the pastâno handbook for approaching trans history.
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