By Wilhelm Hammer Translated by Michael Lombardi-Nash
Berlin, 1906. Beneath the surface of imperial respectability, a hidden world of desire and defiance flourished. In Die Tribadie Berlins, Wilhelm Hammer offers a rare and provocative glimpse into the lives of women who loved women-at a time when their existence was barely acknowledged, let alone understood.
Through vivid case studies, cultural observations and unapologetic storytelling, Hammer documents the social networks, erotic practices, and emotional bonds of Berlin's lesbian subculture. Far from sensationalism, his work captures the humanity, resilience, and complexity of women who dared to live authentically.
A century before queer liberation movements took hold, Lesbians of Berlin stood as one of the earliest attempts to chronicle lesbian life with empathy and curiosity. This newly translated edition brings Hammer's groundbreaking work to English-speaking audiences for the first time-an essential read for historians, activists and anyone interested in the roots of LGBTQ+ identity.