Example Of North-American Vs. European Sexuality During The Early-Modern Period Essay

Introduction

The early modern period in history was the period after the late middle ages that was characterized by the post-classical era. This period is believed to extend from 1500 BC to 1800 BC. Several historical events took place during this period, with the globalizing character being the most important feature. Colonization and exploration of America was common, leading to contacts with the outside world which was previously isolated. One impact this had was promoting global trade of plants, goods, food crops and animals. During the period in question, gender and sexuality were purely cultural matters. Every region had its rules and regulations that guided the expectations. Unlike the modern period which has been shaped by integration, the differences in the ancient period were so wide. As people interacted with each other, it was apparent that there were certain similarities and a number of differences. Such differences existed in various aspects, with sexuality being one of such areas that there existed differences. The European sexuality, in one way or the other, was very different from the Native American sexuality. A deep analysis of this mystery also reveals that there were several reasons for such differences. This paper seeks to unearth these differences and explain the reasons as to why these differences existed.

The differences

In the Native America, both genders were respected. At times, men would dress as women and specialize in activities that would be considered as being feminine. Despite this, such men would still be honored in the society. On a similar extent, it was normal for a woman to lead men to the battle-front and command respect from peers and elders alike for the role they played. This was very different from what happened in European countries as far as sexuality was concerned. Although the two-gendered approach was embraced by the Europeans, at no point would they be considered equal or neutral. It would be suicidal for a man to assume a feminine dress and perform their duties. It was unimaginable for women to lead men, leave alone mating with their own sex.
The second difference between the Native American sexuality and the European sexuality is as regards to the ‘berdache’, or simply, the alternate gender role. Although roles were gender stratified, there were occasions when women could act as males and men act as females, depending on one’s suitability to the subject in issue. In North America, for instance, it was normal for females to undertake the lifestyle of a man. This period saw women becoming gatherers, hunters, chiefs and warriors. Although such practices were tribal affiliated, such a move resulted in the creation of the third and fourth gender respectively. At this period in term, this was contradictory to the practice of most European countries. In Britain, for instance, certain roles were strictly for men while others were for females. It was unheard o that a woman could lead men to the war-front, or even be considered more special than a man. Although there were certain women who stood out, they were considered to be inferior to men. As a result, most European nations operated in a different manner as compared to the Americans.
The third difference is as regards to the perception people of different genders received in America and in European countries. Europeans mostly emphasized on the importance of the boy-child at the expense of the girl-child. This was reflected in matters to do with inheritance and continuity of one’s clan. With this in mind, men were considered to be more superior as compared to women. This was not the case in America. With both genders accorded similar dignity and preference, there did not exist necessarily a strong gender or a weak gender. All were treated equally and accorded similar respect. They were also given equal opportunities. The above named differences were due to a number of reasons as discussed below.

Reasons for the above differences

The differences in sexuality between the Native Americans and Europeans during the early modern period were due to a number of factors. All throughout the world, several aspects are determined using different mechanisms and approaches. To this extent, what might qualify as a practice in one region might not necessarily be considered in another region. The native America and Europe are perfect examples on how differences occurred simultaneously. As already argued, Americans did not attach importance to any gender; all genders were considered equal. Europeans, on the other hand, believed that the boy child was more superior when considered to the girl child. Such differences arose due to a number of factors and reasons as discussed below.
The first reason as to the differences discussed above is as regards to the early modern trends that different regions of the world represented during his time. During this period, Europe experienced feudalism reduction. The commercial revolution that took place during this time and the disastrous years of way (thirty years, to be specific) played a major role in determining the approach that the culture took. This was very different from what the Americans experienced. During this period, men emerged as the main gender that defended the people, hence the importance that was attached to them. This was very different from what took place in America. Relatively peaceful, there’s no gender that was tasked with ensuing that security and peace were maintained. With this, there were no major differences between the men and women in the region. This accounts for the differences that existed between the Americans and the Europeans.
The second reason to such differences is based on the affiliation the regions had to in the early period of history. The Native Americans, for instance, based their principles on the Judeo-Christian culture. Because of this, they did not think there was a threat on aspects such as gender variance and homosexuality, hence the reasons as to why they adopted the practices. According to this early culture, individuals that had such traits uniquely contributed to the American society. This can best be summarized by the words of an elder of Crow tribal, who once alleged that ‘ we don’t waste people the way white society does. Every person has their gift’ This is contrary to what the early modern Europeans believed in. In Europe, most countries were of the opinion that gender roles played a special role in determining the classification individuals would get in the society. To this effect, men were considered to be more superior as considered to the women. This proved to be significant as it led to discrimination based on one’s gender and sex in the community. Whereas men ended up being respected and accorded dignity, women were highly discriminated upon and thought to be playing a less significant role.