[ebook] The Century of Sex: Playboy's History of the Sexual Revolution, 1900-1999 - James R. Petersen

"The Century of Sex: Playboy's History of the Sexual Revolution, 1900-1999" by James R. Petersen presents a sociological and historical examination of American sexual culture and politics throughout the 20th century. The book, featuring 32 pages of illustrations, approaches its subject matter without prurience. Petersen, a former Playboy Advisor, delivers a detailed narrative commissioned by Hugh Hefner, who clarifies in the foreword that the sexual revolution discussed is not solely attributed to him. The book opens with an exploration of the conflict between Anthony Comstock, a prominent early 20th-century censor, and free-love advocate Ida Craddock, which tragically culminated in Craddock’s suicide over obscenity charges related to her sex-education pamphlets. While Playboy's influence is acknowledged, Petersen situates it within a broader context that includes shifts in cinematic portrayals of sexuality, the women's liberation movement, gay rights advancements, and the rise of cybersex. The color plates in the book provide a striking visual overview, showcasing increasingly candid and provocative imagery. Despite minor inaccuracies, such as misidentifying Madonna as a riot girl, the chronicle remains both informative and engaging.