From Hattie McDaniel to Halle Berry, African American nominees and recipients of the Oscar in either the actor, actress, or director categories are the focus of this encyclopedia. Entries--organized chronologically and by name--provide valuable information about how the role or film was viewed during its time and place them in historical context by drawing connections to other awards or events in film history. Appendixes provide lists of overlooked performances, non acting/directing nominees and winners, and performers of nominated songs.