TIMELINE
>> The history of how the porn industry emerged, how it has been regulated, and how “obscenity” has been legally articulated, are helpful ways to understand what “pornography” is, and how it is culturally and politically manufactured.
>> The interactive timeline (below) highlights some contemporary issues that have impacted the development of the porn industry as it exists today. This is not to disregard centuries of visual, erotic representations (just consider Pompeii!), but this timeline arbitrarily begins with the mid-20th century as a way to think through contemporary issues of regulation. To navigate the timeline: Use the arrows to go back and forth, and use the “More” button to go full screen.
>> Please note: this is a work in progress. Are there events missing, or facts that need to be changed? Please contact me or post a comment below if there is anything that you’d like to add – or if there are changes you’re interested in seeing!