Histories of HIV/AIDS in Western Europe: New and Regional Perspectives

This edited collection explores the historical aspects of AIDS, particularly in less well-known regions of Western Europe, focusing on experiences, events, and memories of various groups, including drug users, sex workers, nurses, mothers, and people in prison. It offers new perspectives on policy development, activism, and expertise and challenges the narratives of who and what histories are remembered.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 05 July 2022
Publisher: Manchester University Press

The early 2020s marked a significant milestone in the history of AIDS, commemorating the fortieth anniversary of the first confirmed cases of the disease. This period witnessed a renewed surge of historical interest in the ongoing epidemic, driven by a growing recognition of the importance of understanding its historical roots and implications. This edited collection, comprising eight chapters authored by scholars from various disciplines, including social, cultural, and public historians, sociologists, and area studies experts, offers a captivating exploration of lesser-known histories from western Europe.

The chapters in this collection delve into the experiences, events, and memories of individuals and communities across regions and nations, including Scotland, Wales, Italy, Norway, and the Netherlands. With a keen eye to often-overlooked groups such as drug users, sex workers, nurses, mothers, and individuals in prison, the authors provide fresh perspectives on the development and implementation of policy, the nature of activism, and the expertise involved in combating AIDS.

This book is of paramount importance not only for historians of health but also for those engaged in HIV/AIDS studies. It offers valuable insights into the historical context of the epidemic, shedding light on the challenges and successes faced by individuals, communities, and governments in combating this global health crisis. By examining the experiences of different groups and regions, the book challenges prevailing narratives and promotes a more inclusive and comprehensive understanding of AIDS history.

In addition to the scholarly content, this collection also makes available electronic versions of chapters 3, 4, 6, 7, and 8 under a creative commons license. This allows for wider dissemination and accessibility of the research, ensuring that the insights and perspectives presented in this book reach a broader audience.

Overall, this edited collection is a valuable contribution to the field of AIDS history and provides a rich source of information and insights for scholars, researchers, and policymakers alike. Its commitment to exploring lesser-known histories and promoting a more inclusive understanding of the epidemic is a testament to the ongoing importance of historical research in shaping our understanding of HIV/AIDS and its impact on society.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526151216