Prostitution evolved from a worshipped practice to an illegal and shameful profession. In some ancient cultures, there was a sacred "Goddess of Love" who was worshipped by the people. In other societies, or as some progressed, prostitution became regulated and restricted. At the beginning of the twentieth century, attempts were made to abolish prostitution because of growing concerns for health and the progression of feminism.
Prostitution was once commonly considered a sacred profession. Some early civilizations who participated in the worship of prostitution include: Egypt, Babylon, Assyria, and India. The probable cause of this unorthodox practice, was the belief in the existence of a mother fertility goddess. "Inanna" is the ancient name of the worshipped goddess of sexual expression and nurturing. The name later became "Ishtar": the protector of prostitutes, and Asearte, Aphrodite, and Diana in other cultures. In ancient Babylon, women were required to visit the temple of Ishtar and have sex with a stranger. These practices were believed to be sacred and holy.
In other cultures, these practices were restricted, and believed to be evil. In ancient Rome, prostitutes were required to dress a certain way, carry registration, and travel in restricted transportation. The Christians believed that prostitution was evil, but necessary. The Christian figure, Mary Magdalene, a reformed prostitute, served as a model for prostitutes to conform to celibacy, and redeem themselves. The effect of the Renaissance and Reformation minimized prostitution and impoverished former prostitutes.
As time progressed, efforts to abolish prostitution increased. One main cause was the need to reduce health risks, such as the venereal disease, syphilis. Another cause was enforced by Josephine Butler (1828-1906), a feminist. Prostitution was a barrier to the achievement of a higher respect for women. Her devotion to the abolishment of prostitution influenced the United Nations and the League of Nations to join the movement. Unfortunately, "madams" and "brothels" were popular in the United States. The Mann Act was a primary step to reducing prostitution's popularity by prohibiting prostitutes to be transported across state borders.
By examining the history of prostitution, one can see how a once sacred practice has become today a shameful, illegal, and disease-spreading occupation. It is interesting, though, to compare the viewpoint of today's society, to that of ancient civilizations.