The concept of sexual identity as we understand it today—an inherent aspect of one's personal and social self—might seem foundational to human relationships and societal structures. However, a closer examination of history reveals that this notion is relatively recent. The framework of sexual identity, characterized by labels like heterosexual, homosexual, bisexual, and others, began to crystallize only in the 19th and 20th centuries. Before this, relationships and sexual behaviors were often perceived through entirely different lenses, shaped more by social, cultural, and situational contexts than by fixed identities. 

A new history of American sexuality sheds light on this evolution, using poignant narratives from the past to illustrate the fluidity and complexity of human connections. One such story is that of two young men, Hubbel Pierce and Alonzo Choate, whose relationship in the mid-19th century challenges modern assumptions about how individuals understood and expressed their bonds.

A Tale of Love and Companionship in the 1860s  

In 1864, amidst the chaos and camaraderie of the American Civil War, two teenage soldiers in the Union Army, Hubbel Pierce and Alonzo Choate, formed an extraordinary bond. Their connection went beyond mere friendship, blossoming into a deep romantic and emotional partnership. 

After meeting on the march south, the two young men, brothers in arms, found solace and affection in each other. Upon returning to civilian life as homesteaders in Michigan, their bond remained steadfast. Pierce, in a gesture symbolic of commitment, gave Choate a ring. Their correspondence offers a rare glimpse into their relationship. They referred to each other in intimate terms, such as "beloved husband," and openly joked about their sexual relationship—a level of candor that might surprise modern readers.

Even their relatives seemed to recognize and accept the unique nature of their connection. Choate’s sister, in a postscript to one of her letters, humorously referred to her brother as Pierce’s "wife." This playful acknowledgment suggests that, while their relationship might not have been formally codified or labeled in the ways modern society would recognize, it was understood and embraced within their immediate social circle.

Understanding Sexual Identity in Historical Context  

The story of Pierce and Choate is not merely an anomaly but a reflection of a time when the boundaries between friendship, companionship, and romantic relationships were more fluid. In 19th-century America, the language and frameworks to define sexual orientation or identity as we do today did not exist. Intimate relationships between same-sex individuals were often viewed through the lens of deep friendship or familial-like bonds rather than being categorized as "homosexual" or "heterosexual."  

The lack of rigid definitions allowed for a broader range of emotional and physical expressions. Intense same-sex friendships were common and socially accepted, even if they included romantic or sexual elements. Such relationships often thrived without societal condemnation, as long as they did not overtly challenge prevailing norms around marriage, procreation, and gender roles.

The Emergence of Sexual Identity as a Concept  

The modern notion of sexual identity began to emerge in the late 19th century with the advent of sexology—a new field of study dedicated to understanding human sexuality. European researchers like Karl Heinrich Ulrichs and Richard von Krafft-Ebing were among the first to articulate theories about sexual orientation, categorizing individuals based on their sexual attractions. This marked a shift from viewing behaviors as isolated acts to perceiving them as expressions of an intrinsic identity.

By the early 20th century, these ideas gained traction in the United States, where burgeoning urbanization and the rise of subcultures created spaces for individuals to explore and express their sexualities more openly. However, this newfound visibility also led to increased scrutiny and regulation. The labels of "heterosexual" and "homosexual" became tools for both self-identification and societal control, marking a departure from the more fluid understandings of earlier eras.

Implications for Modern Understandings of Identity  

The historical narrative of sexual identity reveals how deeply intertwined it is with cultural, social, and political forces. The story of Pierce and Choate serves as a reminder that human relationships have always existed in myriad forms, often defying the categories and labels that later generations might impose.

As society continues to evolve, the lessons of the past highlight the importance of recognizing and respecting the diversity of human experiences. Sexual identity, far from being a fixed or universal truth, is a dynamic construct shaped by the contexts in which people live, love, and connect.

The idea of sexual identity is, indeed, relatively new, shaped by historical developments and the changing lenses through which society views relationships and behaviors. The story of Hubbel Pierce and Alonzo Choate offers a poignant example of how love and partnership were understood in an era before the advent of modern sexual identities. It invites us to consider how our current frameworks might evolve in the future and to celebrate the rich tapestry of human connection that transcends labels and definitions.