In the 1950s, individuals who did not conform to the societal norms of gender or sexuality were often subjected to stigmatization and persecution through legal ramifications and labeling as "deviants" with terms like "homosexual" or "invert". Despite this, early advocates for LGBTQ rights adopted the term "homophile" and responded to this oppression with innovative resistance.

World War II brought together many people around the country because many were leaving for the war. Among these millions of people were the gays and lesbians who put aside their kinships on military bases around the world. These people were scared to show their real identity because it could possibly get them dishonorably discharged or even court martialled. However, thousands of people in the military and civil servants were fired because of being homosexual. The military developed homosexual punishments during World War II. The idea of blackmailing was harder because few homosexuals were positioned to not talk about their identity. 

Following World War II, homosexuals were connected directly to communism. The Cold War gave rise to Senator Joseph McCarthy who was targeting "deviants" in government and Hollywood, seeking to remove undesirable elements from America. This became known as the "Red Scare" and later the "Lavender Scare." 

“1950s - Explore a Decade in LGBTQ+ History: Pride & Progress.” Explore a Decade in LGBTQ+ History | Pride & Progress, www.prideandprogress.org/years/1950s. Accessed March 28 2024.