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The first African-American to be nominated for an Academy Award, McDaniel was honored as Best Supporting Actress of 1939 for her portrayal of Mammy in David O. Selznick's classic motion picture Gone With The Wind (1939).
Hattie began her career much like James Baskett, touring the black theater circuit, working in tent shows and vaudeville and later turning to radio as a vocalist. In the 1930's and 40's McDaniel became one of the most prominent film character actresses in Hollywood, creating roles closely identifying with hard working black women. She was also criticized by the NAACP for perpetuating black stereotypes.
Unfortunately, Hattie's career was cut short in 1952 due to breast cancer, but her accomplishments will not be forgotten.
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