Over the course of its 79-year history, the Academy Awards has played an important role in promoting progressive thought and signaling social change. This timeline, created by Reel Progress, charts the course of progressive ideals at the yearly awards show.
Click and drag the timeline to scroll through Oscar history, and click on each item to learn more about each event.
To learn more about Reel Progress, the progressive film series sponsored by the Center for American Progress, please visit www.reelprogress.org.