Hattie McDaniel was the first Black actor to win an Oscar, receiving the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress in 1940 for her role as Mammy in the film Gone with the Wind. Her victory was historic, marking a significant moment in representation within Hollywood. Despite the challenges and racial prejudices of her time, McDaniel's achievement paved the way for future generations of Black actors in the film industry. She faced criticism for her roles, yet remains an emblem of Black excellence and resilience in cinema.