Jorgensen, Christine, 1926-1989

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Christine Jorgensen (May 30, 1926 – May 3, 1989) was an American actress, singer, recording artist, and transgender activist. She was the first person to become widely known in the United States for having sex reassignment surgery.

In 1945, Jorgensen was drafted into the U.S. Army during World War II. After she served as a military clerical worker, Jorgensen attended several schools, worked, and pursued a photography career. During this time, she learned about sex reassignment surgery and traveled to Europe, where in Copenhagen, Denmark, she obtained special permission to undergo a series of operations beginning in 1952.

Upon her return to the United States in the early 1950s, her transition was the subject of a New York Daily News front-page story. She became an instant celebrity, known for her directness and polished wit, and used the platform to advocate for transgender people.

Archival Resources
Role Title Holding Repository
referencedIn Benemann, William,. William Benemann collection of sexuality and gender miscellany, 1953-2011. UC Berkeley Libraries
referencedIn [Correspondence on Christine Jorgensen and cross dressing']. California State University, Northridge
referencedIn Prince, Virginia. [Virginia Prince papers : Transvestia : news clippings]. California State University, Northridge
referencedIn Motion Picture Releases of the Universal Newsreel Library, 1929 - 1967 National Archives at College Park
Role Title Holding Repository
Relation Name
associatedWith Benemann, William, person
Place Name Admin Code Country
San Clemente CA US
Bronx NY US
Subject
Occupation
Activity

Person

Birth 1926-05-30

Death 1989-05-03

Female

Americans

English

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Ark ID: w61v65c1

SNAC ID: 21506962