In 1997, Chris Rock defined himself as a searing critic of racism in this country with his breakthrough stand-up routine about black stereotypes. The bit made such a lasting impact that, even more than a decade later, President Obama referenced Rock's jokes during a speech while campaigning in 2008. As host of the Oscars during a year in which the Academy Awards nominations are embarrassingly white, Rock was expected to hit, and to hit hard. During his blistering opening monologue, Rock was relentless in hammering not just the Oscars, but Hollywood as a whole. Here are some standout jokes:

From: Esquire US