The first Academy Award that was given to a black actor was in 1940.  It was presented to Hattie McDaniel (1895 - 1957) in the Best Supporting Actress category for her role in “Gone With the Wind.”  Ms. McDaniel not only opened a door for black actresses, but for people of color all over the United States.  This victory would eventually lead to Sydney Poitier’s Oscar win the in 1960s as well as the others that have come after.