The term "Blacktress", is a term utlized to describe any of the Black women who were pioneers of the film industry. Because of segregation and racism it, was very difficult for people of color (most notably women) to break into the film industry as actresses. More often than not in the early years of Hollywood black women portrayed maids, slaves or servants. The term "Blacktress" was coined in praise of women who opened the doors for black women in film.
Notably Blacktresses include: Hattie McDaniel, LaWanda Page, Ruby Dee, and Butterfly McQueen.
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