This article works from the perspective of social constructivism on sexuality with the aim of discussing the emergence of modern "sexual identities". I identify, on the one hand, the "invention" of homosexuality (and, consequently, of heterosexuality) in the discursive production of Victorian society. On the other hand, I discuss the form in which this new category becomes the basis of a political strife that vindicates sexual diversity, focusing mainly on the evolution of sexual orientation politics in 20th. century North American society.
sexual politics; gender identities; new social movements