Black Hollywood: African Americans in Film – The Early Years
Presented by Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) 

This lecture is a portrait of the Black film community during Hollywood’s formative years. Film was recognized early on as a powerful medium with which to shape perceptions. There was a conscious attempt to categorize African Americans using negative stereotypes at a time when they were calling for their full rights as citizens. They came to be cast primarily as servants, “mammies," or plantation figures. Not until the 1950s would Hollywood cast a Black actor in a leading role. This poignant account will feature black film legends and lesser-known artists of the period whose talent is an important part of Hollywood’s legacy. These artists paved the way for future generations of African American actors who would claim their rightful position as leading stars of the silver screen.