Early Life and Career Beginnings
Hattie McDaniel was born on June 10, 1893 in Wichita, Kansas to former slaves. She was the youngest of 13 children. Her father fought in the Civil War and her mother was a gospel singer. In 1900, the family moved to Colorado where McDaniel later graduated high school in Denver.
As a young woman, McDaniel worked as a vaudeville dancer, singer, comic, and stage actress. She began her entertainment career in 1910.
Breaking Barriers in Hollywood
In 1932, McDaniel landed her first film role and would go on to appear in over 300 films in her career, receiving credits for about 80 roles.
Though she often played domestic workers and maids due to racial stereotyping at the time, McDaniel brought respect, elegance and charm to her performances. She paved the way for other African-American actresses with her talent and generosity of spirit.
Oscar Glory for “Gone With the Wind”
McDaniel is best known for her Oscar-winning performance as “Mammy” in the 1939 classic film Gone With the Wind. With this award, she made history as the first African-American to win an Academy Award.
At the time, her achievement was controversial with groups like the NAACP due to the stereotypical nature of the maid role. However, McDaniel stood her ground, commenting “I’d rather play a maid and make $700 a week than be one for $7.”
Radio, Television, and Activism
In addition to her extensive film career, McDaniel was a popular radio and television performer. She was the first African-American woman to sing on the radio in the U.S. McDaniel starred in the radio show “The Beulah Show” in 1947, which later adapted into a groundbreaking television series with her as the first black lead.
Outside of performing, she was also active in civil rights efforts like fighting housing discrimination in her Los Angeles neighborhood.
Lasting Legacy
Sadly, McDaniel passed away from breast cancer in 1952 at age 57. Though she wished to be buried in Hollywood Cemetery, she was denied due to segregation policies.
Decades later, her family approved a cenotaph memorial at Hollywood Forever Cemetery to finally honor McDaniel’s request. Today, the pioneering actress has two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and her image is featured on a U.S. postage stamp.
Through her immense talents and determination, Hattie McDaniel opened doors for generations of African-American performers to come.
