Legal History Commons^™

An Examination Of Prostitution And Sex Trafficking Laws Within The United States, Allison J. Capaul

Departmental Honors Projects

As one of the oldest professions, prostitution has had a continual presence in the United States. This once tolerated activity became a public affront at the turn of the twentieth century. Failed attempts at regulation and changes in societal views then advanced the criminalization of prostitution throughout the United States: it was made completely illegal in all states with the exclusion of thirteen counties in Nevada.

At the same time, awareness of sex trafficking increased and laws attempted to protect individuals who were being transported by force, deceit, and threat of force for purposes of sex slavery. While states have …