20 фев 1919 г. - First African American director

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On this date, Oscar Devereaux Micheaux released his first feature-length film 'The Homesteader.' Oscar Devereaux made more than 40 films between 1919 and 1948. his films were the first feature-lengths that highlighted the injustice of African Americans at the time. The films he made spoke on issues and topics targeted towards black audiences using an all-black cast and black characters that weren't only there to fit a harmful stereotype like in most films at the time. His films also helped build up popular genres such as mysteries and gangster plots. His most famous piece was 'Within our gates' which was an attacking response to DW Griffith's extremely racist piece 'A birth of a nation' in 1915.

This was a time of extreme racial injustice and segregation in America, Oscar Deveraux's work was a huge and important step in trying to address and provoke change in America. He was of extreme controversy at the time but he was described as a 'powerfully good businessman' and 'knew what he wanted' he didn't let the times hold him back, even when his screenplays got denied from every big production company, he made them himself on a very small budget and crew. He is described as today as probably the most independent filmmaker of America, due to the amount of lack of support he was given.

His work will go down as influential and inspirational, being the first African American Director, Producer, Screenplay writer and to have the first 'race films' (as what it was called at the time) to be shown at all white cinemas.

To be able to be such a strong creative force as a black man in the 20s and to withstand being so ridiculed and attacked for your work, took strength, and determination. His contribution to diversity and justice within the industry is a big milestone within our history, he helped lead change and highlighted the power that film can have on our society today.

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