History of Sex Work: From Ancient Times to Today
Ever wondered how sex work got to where it is now? It didn’t just appear yesterday. People have been paying for companionship for thousands of years, and every era left its own mark on the trade.
Early Beginnings and Cultural Roles
In ancient Mesopotamia, clay tablets mention women who offered sexual services for a fee. Those early workers weren’t hidden; they were recorded in legal codes and tax rolls. Moving west, the Greeks called them hetairai. They weren’t just prostitutes; they were educated, attended symposia, and sometimes influenced politics. The Romans kept a similar system, with state‑registered brothels that collected taxes.
Asia saw its own version. In Imperial China, courtesans were trained in music, poetry, and dance. They entertained elite men and often held real power behind the scenes. In Japan, the oiran were high‑class courtesans who ran their own houses and negotiated rates directly.
Religion and morality started to clash with these practices. Early Christianity condemned prostitution, labeling it a sin. Yet many medieval European towns kept official brothels because they provided tax income and a way to keep the activity under control.
Modern Laws and Social Shifts
The 19th century brought a big change: the “social purity” movement. Reformers in the US and Europe pushed for criminalizing the purchase of sex, thinking it would protect women. That led to the “abolitionist” model, where the client is punished but the worker isn’t. Countries like Sweden later adopted the “Nordic model,” criminalizing buyers while offering help to workers.
Other places chose the “legal‑regulation” route. The Netherlands, Germany, and parts of Australia licensed brothels, set health standards, and required regular medical checks. The idea was to make the trade safer and more transparent.
In the 21st century, decriminalization has become a hot topic. New Zealand’s 2003 law removed all criminal penalties for consensual sex work, focusing on health and workers’ rights. Advocates argue this reduces abuse, while critics worry it could normalize exploitation.
Technology also reshaped the industry. The internet turned street‑level work into online profiles, chat apps, and discreet booking platforms. This shift gave workers more control over who they see, but it also created new risks like digital scams.
Today, the conversation is less about banning and more about protecting. Cities are experimenting with “safe zones,” health clinics, and legal aid for workers. Public opinion is slowly moving from moral panic to a more practical view: if sex work exists, make it as safe as possible.
Looking back, the history of sex work is a story of adaptation. From ancient tax records to modern online platforms, the trade has always responded to cultural, legal, and economic forces. Understanding that history helps us see why today’s policies matter and how they can be improved.
