Dan Snow's History Hit Soho: London's Most Notorious Neighbourhood
Feb 24, 2025
Kate Lister, a sex historian and the host of the Betwixt the Sheets podcast, dives into the wild history of Soho, once a nexus of crime, sex work, and revolution. She reveals the dynamic nightlife of the 1920s, where speakeasies thrived and female gangs took charge of nightclubs. The conversation touches on Soho's crucial role in the rise of jazz and the evolving attitudes towards sexuality. Kate also explores the cultural shifts post-World War I and the neighborhood's transformation from a bohemian hub to its current gentrified state.
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The First Sexual Revolution
- The 1920s are considered the first sexual revolution by some scholars.
- This era saw significant shifts in societal norms, particularly regarding women's roles and sexual autonomy.
Soho's Transformation
- Soho, once an aristocratic haven, transformed into a hub for theaters and entertainment.
- Its transition to a 'shabby, boho, chic' area coincided with the rise of drinking dens and brothels.
Shifting Sexual Morality
- World War I significantly impacted sexual morality, leading to changing attitudes towards sex.
- The availability of reliable-ish contraception and open discussions about sex further fueled this change.