February 29th

On this day - February 29th 1940 - Hattie McDaniel becomes the first African American to win an Academy Award

Hattie McDaniel became the first African American to win an Academy Award for her portrayal of Mammy in Gone with The Wind. McDaniel is most known for her part in Gone With the Wind but she also was a professional singer-songwriter,comedian, stage actress radio performer and television star. She was the first African American woman to sing on the radio in the USA. She made a contribution to over 300 films but only received screen credits for around 80 films.  Her contribution has been celebrated by the Hollywood Walk of Fame by no less than two stars. During World War II she served as chairman of the "Negro Division" of the Hollywood Victory Committee, providing entertainment for soldiers stationed at military bases. She med personal appearances at military hospitals, threw parties, and performed at the United Service Organization shows and war bond rallies. All out an impressive woman from one of our favorite movies Gone With The Wind