February 29
Hattie McDaniel Wins Oscar
On February 29, 1940, Hattie McDaniel won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Mammy in "Gone with the Wind." She was seated at a segregated table at the back of the ceremony venue, the Cocoanut Grove nightclub in Los Angeles.
First African American Oscar Nominee
In February 1940, Hattie McDaniel was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Gone with the Wind." She won the award, but her acceptance and attendance were complicated by the segregation policies of the venue.
Augusta Savage Born
Born February 29, 1892, Augusta Savage overcame poverty and racism to become one of the most influential artists of the Harlem Renaissance. She founded the Savage Studio of Arts and Crafts in Harlem and mentored a generation of Black artists including Jacob Lawrence.