In a recent display of historical gymnastics, CNN published an article suggesting that conservatives have been targeting the transgender community since the Reconstruction era. This narrative, while provocative, raises several questions about historical accuracy and the motivations behind such claims.

The Frances Thompson Narrative

Central to CNN’s argument is the story of Frances Thompson, a Black resident of Memphis who, in 1866, was a victim of the Memphis Race Massacre. Thompson provided testimony during a Congressional inquiry into the violent events, which CNN credits as influential in the passage of the 14th Amendment. A decade later, Thompson was arrested for cross-dressing, leading CNN to assert that this was an early example of conservative persecution against transgender individuals.

However, this interpretation appears to conflate several issues. The 19th-century societal norms were vastly different from today’s understanding of gender identity. The term “transgender” was not in use, and the concept, as recognized now, did not exist. Therefore, framing Thompson’s experience as part of a long-standing conservative agenda against transgender people seems anachronistic and oversimplified.

Historical Context and Political Realities

It’s essential to consider the political landscape of the 19th century. During Reconstruction, the Republican Party, founded on anti-slavery principles, was the progressive force advocating for civil rights, while the Democratic Party largely opposed these measures. President Andrew Johnson, a Democrat, vetoed the Civil Rights Act of 1866, which was then overridden by a Republican-led Congress. This context complicates CNN’s portrayal, as it suggests that the very conservatives they accuse were, in fact, the ones championing civil rights during that period.

Modern Implications and Media Narratives

Fast forward to today, and the media landscape is rife with debates over transgender rights. CNN’s article appears to draw a direct line from 19th-century events to contemporary political disputes, particularly criticizing actions like President Donald Trump’s executive order banning biological males from participating in women’s sports. This comparison seems to serve more as a political statement than a nuanced historical analysis.