Yes, this is historically correct: A purifying movement came out of the US in the 1800s, initially aimed at purifying and containing men’s sexual appetites with the laudable aim of reducing sexual violence against women. I forget the lady’s name, just the shape of what I recall – time for a Google safari!
Unfortunately, Eugenics were picked as part of the purifying movement, so it grew to a wider set of “purity” notions, led to widespread white superiority feelings and attempts at racial, mental and sexual purity via sterilisation, correction and even extermination techniques, some of which were still in existence in the 1970s, despite the fact that these ideals were a core influence on the Nazis (among others).
It’s scary how a well meaning idea, with a strong reason behind it’s existence can lead, via the vaguearies of “morality” to such horrendous atrocities, and leave such a long-lasting consequences.
Sorry this is a bit of a vague overview – hopefully others have the details and can fill in the facts!
Love Laura
