Hattie McDaniel: The First Black Oscar Winner

The video discusses the history of the Oscars, focusing on Hattie McDaniel, the first Black person to win an Academy Award. It covers her early life, career challenges, and her breakthrough role in 'Gone With the Wind'. Despite her success, McDaniel faced criticism for reinforcing stereotypes. Her legacy is explored, highlighting the slow progress in diversity at the Oscars, with mentions of other Black actors who achieved similar milestones.

What was the significance of Hattie McDaniel's role in the 1940 Academy Awards?

• She was the first Black person to win an Oscar.

• She was the first person to win an Oscar for a comedy.

• She was the first woman to win an Oscar.

• She was the first person to win an Oscar for a musical.

What was the main criticism of Hattie McDaniel's role in 'Gone With the Wind'?

• It was too comedic.

• It reinforced negative stereotypes of Black women.

• It was historically inaccurate.

• It was not a leading role.

What was Hattie McDaniel's response to criticism about her frequent 'mammy' roles?

• She ignored the criticism.

• She agreed with the criticism.

• She believed it would open doors for better roles.

• She refused to play such roles again.

Why was Hattie McDaniel not allowed to attend the premiere of 'Gone With the Wind'?

• The theater was segregated and only allowed white patrons.

• She was ill at the time.

• She was not invited by the producers.

• She was busy with another project.

Who was the first Black male to win a Best Actor Oscar?

• Sidney Poitier

• Morgan Freeman

• Lou Gossett Junior

• Denzel Washington