Performing in blackface was a theatrical convention used by many entertainers at the beginning of the 20th century, having its origin in the minstrel show. Al Jolson was the most famous performer to use blackface and thus is sometimes used as an example of whites propagating racial stereotypes in film. However, Jolson's blackface characters were always the star performers, as opposed to simple minstrel singers. Since leading black performers were unheard of at that time, either on stage or in movies, his blackface character would not actually be considered a stereotype.
"Since leading black performers were unheard of at that time ... "
Ah, how things have changed in America.
HT - James T.
UPDATED:
Hollywood dream presidential candidate.
A Hollywood liberal's dream, the self-satisfaction of voting for a person of color, with none of the guilt of voting for an African-American.
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