What is the history of dressing up in drag?

The history of dressing up in drag is long and diverse, with a rich and complex evolution over the centuries. While it's challenging to provide an exhaustive account of this history, here are some key points and periods in the development of drag:

• Ancient and Early History: The practice of individuals dressing in clothing typically associated with the opposite gender can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In some cases, this was related to religious or ceremonial practices, while in others, it was for theatrical and entertainment purposes. Ancient Greece and Rome, for instance, had theatrical traditions that involved men playing female roles in plays and performances.

• Cross-Dressing in Theater: In the European theater of the 16th and 17th centuries, male actors would portray female characters due to societal norms and restrictions on women in the performing arts. This tradition continued for centuries, with male actors becoming famous for their portrayals of women.

• 19th Century Vaudeville and Music Halls: The 19th century saw the rise of vaudeville and music hall entertainment, where cross-dressing performances were popular. Female impersonators, often male performers, would dress in women's clothing and sing, dance, and act as female characters.

• Early Drag Balls: The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw the emergence of drag balls in urban centers like New York City. These events provided safe spaces for LGBTQ+ individuals to express themselves through drag, often in secret due to societal stigma and discrimination.

• Drag in LGBTQ+ Subcultures: Drag played a significant role in LGBTQ+ subcultures throughout the 20th century. It became a form of self-expression and celebration within LGBTQ+ communities, particularly during times when LGBTQ+ rights were not recognized.

• Stonewall and the Modern Drag Movement: The Stonewall riots of 1969 in New York City marked a turning point in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, and drag queens, particularly transgender women of color, played a prominent role in the protests. This period helped catapult drag culture into the public consciousness and was a catalyst for the modern drag movement.

• Drag as Mainstream Entertainment: In recent decades, drag has moved from the fringes of LGBTQ+ culture to mainstream entertainment. Television shows like "RuPaul's Drag Race" have played a significant role in bringing drag to a global audience. Drag queens and kings have become iconic figures in popular culture.

Today, dressing in drag is celebrated for its artistic and expressive qualities, and it continues to be a powerful platform for challenging gender norms and promoting acceptance and diversity. Drag has a diverse and complex history, influenced by various cultural, social, and artistic movements, and it remains an integral part of LGBTQ+ culture and the broader entertainment industry.