Same-Sex Marriage: A Reference Handbook [Hardcover]

Same-sex marriage continues to be a polarizing subject in the United States and other parts of the world. This new edition ofSame-Sex Marriage: A Reference Handbookbrings readers up to date on the status of same-sex unions from social, legal, political, and historical perspectives.

According to Pew Research poll data, in 2001, the majority of Americans opposed same-sex marriage57 percent against, 35 percent in support. As of 2015, a majority of Americans (55 percent) supported same-sex marriage, with 39 percent expressing opposition. The landmarkObergefell v. Hodgescase, in which the U.S. Supreme Court held in a 54 decision that the fundamental right to marry is guaranteed to same-sex couples, is likely further influencing opinions among U.S. citizens. Still, controversy and heated debate continues to ensue on the social, legal, and political implications of same-sex marriage.

The second edition ofSame-Sex Marriage: A Reference Handbookpresents thorough coverage of recent changes in the legal status of same-sex marriage in the United States as well as essays that provide historical perspectives on same-sex marriage; an extensive, up-to-date bibliography; a collection of primary source documents; a glossary; and a chronology that will serve readers studying the topic. New material includes a detailed discussion of the 2015 Supreme Court of the United States decision as well as coverage of issues that have arisen as a result of the Obergefell case, such as the debate over religious freedom and LGBT civil rights legislation.

David E. Newton, EdD, has been a freelance writer of nonfiction books and ancillary materials for young adults for nearly 55 years. He has published more than 400 textbooks, research manuals, trade books, encyclopedias, and encyclopedia articles.At its first printing, in 2010, only 5 states and the District of Colombia allowed same-sex marriage in the U.S., compared to all 50 states today.lã+