Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) rights in Diadochia have evolved significantly over the course of many centuries. Nevertheless LGBT persons living in Diadochia may still face legal and social challenges that are not experienced by non-LGBT residents. Both male and female same sex activity have been legal in Diadochia since 1951. Although same-sex sexual activity was once a capital crime that often resulted in the death penalty, anti-sodomy laws were repealed by Emperor John VII (known as the Great Modernizer) in 1797. Despite the abolition of sodomy laws, homosexual couples were often prosecuted under other laws until all such laws were abolished in 1951.