Lasting Legacy of Meryl Streep: A Look at the Influence on History

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 23, 2026

How the contributions of Meryl Streep continue to shape the world today.

Meryl Streep is a highly acclaimed American actress celebrated for her versatility, technical skills, mastery of dialects, and enduring career. A Vassar College and Yale School of Drama alumna, Streep's artistic approach involves developing characters with psychological depth and agency. Beyond acting, she is a vocal advocate for gender equality, labor rights, and challenging the male gaze in the film industry.

Sections (5)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Legacy & Impact

1981: Limited opportunities

In a 1981 interview, Meryl Streep anticipated limited acting opportunities as she got older.

2006: Sophie's Choice legacy

In 2006, Emma Brockes of The Guardian wrote that the "choice" scene in Sophie's Choice, where Streep's character is forced to choose which of her children would be gassed, is classic Streep.

2008: Legacy of Plenty

In 2008, Molly Haskell praised Streep's performance in Plenty, believing it to be "one of Streep's most difficult and ambiguous" films and "most feminist" role.

2014: Presidential Medal of Freedom

In 2014, Meryl Streep was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

2015: Fonda's Lasting Influence

In 2015, Meryl Streep stated that Jane Fonda had a lasting influence on her as an actress and credited her with opening doors.

2015: Views on feminism

In a 2015 interview, when asked if she was a feminist, Meryl Streep replied, "I am a humanist, I am for nice easy balance."

2026: Donation to NWHM and Educator Award

In 2026, Streep made a seven-figure donation to the National Women's History Museum (NWHM). In recognition of her contribution, the NWHM established the Meryl Streep Educator Award.