You didn't ask, but here are some of my thoughts on why bisexual historical figures get described as gay, thus erasing their bisexual identity.

I write this as a gay historian, so I think I get why the gay academic community does this, although we NEED to stop. /1

It is a fact that gay/homosexual people have been erased from history. Their lives deleted, changed, hidden or forgotten.

This has meant gay historians often feel a desperate need to defend and create a space for 'gay' history. The fear is we will lose it otherwise /2

In the past heterosexual academics have looked at people who have had same-sex relationships throughout history, and tried to refute them. Queer academics have fought for these people to have their stories told accurately. In particular gay academics fought for 'Gay history'. /3

The issue comes here: Many of these historical figures also had heterosexual relationships too. For many (and I include my past self) acknowledging these relationships felt like losing ground, diluting their story and handing our icons back to heteronormative assumptions. /4

Let me clear. This is wrong.
Bisexuality is every bit as valid and real as any other queer identity. Being a good queer historian and ally means standing up for the true story of people in the past, irrespective of whether their identities fully match your own. /5

By fighting only for the gays, thinking this was the way to push back against heteronormativity, we have created a space where bisexuality is erased, misrepresented and passed off as youthful folly, forced desire or an attempt to pass /6

It's a muddy river is history: Yes, gay men and women did perform heterosexuality so as to exist in society. For those who have stated their homosexuality, written about it, or there is substantial evidence to show it, then yes, call them gay! But you need that evidence. /7

Talking about a historical figure's bisexuality, biromantic relationships, or pansexuality does NOT dilute their importance to the queer community.

Us gays need open the doors, allow our sacred icons to be reinterpreted and not see it as losing territory. /8

Therefore whilst I understand the reticence around letting go, the fear of the straight agenda trying to neuter queer history. We should know better, our bisexual family need their icons too. We can share. Let go. /9

NOTE: Many typos coz passionate!!!!