February 28: This Day in Black History

Black History Month originated in 1926, founded by Carter G. Woodson and was created to celebrate achievements, births, important timelines, events and to remember those we lost.

1. Tasha Smith

1971: Actress Tasha Smith was born on this day in Camden, New Jersey.

2. Hattie McDaniel

1940: Actress Hattie McDaniel was the first African-American to win an Academy Award. She won the award for Best Supporting Actress for her role of Mammy in Gone with the Wind on this day. (1940 was a leap year and the Academy Awards were held on February 29th) (Photo: NewsOne)

3. Native Son published

1940: Native Son by Richard Wright was published.

4. Bubba Smith

1945: Former NFL player turned actor Bubba Smith was born. He passed away in 2011, aged 66.

5. Gilbert Gottfried

1955: Stand-up comedian, actor and voice artist Gilbert Gottfried was born. He turns 59 today.

6. Adrian Dantley

1955: NBA Hall of Famer Adrian Dantley was born. He turns 59 today.

7. Ollie Matson

1959: NFL trade: The Chicago Cardinals traded Ollie Matson to LA Rams for 9 players. When he retired in 1966, his career all-purpose yards were second only to Jim Brown. Matson was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1972.

8. Rae Dawn Chong

1961: Actress Rae Dawn Chong was born. She turns 53 today.

9. Natalie Cole

1976: Natalie Cole took home Grammy Awards for ‘Best New Artist’ and ‘Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female’ for the song ‘This Will Be’ on this day at the 18th Annual Grammy Awards Show.