Sidney Poitier – African American Landmark Actor & Director
In 1963 Sidney Poitier became the first African American to win an Academy Award for Best Actor in a Lead Role creating the character of Homer Smith in Lilies of the Field.
His 40+ year career as an Oscar-winning star and film director broke down barriers for actors of color, becoming a Hollywood leading man at a time before black Americans were even granted full civil rights. He also opened doors for black directors after stepping behind the camera to direct nine features. In addition, he served as the non-resident Bahamian Ambassador to Japan and UNESCO and was recipient of the United States’ highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom .
Academy Award Winning, African American Movie Posters, African-American Memorabilia, Oscar Winning, Presidential Medal Freedom
