One notable Black filmmaker in Black history is Oscar Micheaux. He was a pioneer in African American cinema, known for writing, producing, and directing over 40 films during the early 20th century. Micheaux explored themes of race, identity, and social issues within the Black community, often challenging stereotypes and advocating for racial equality. His most famous film, "Within Our Gates" (1920), was a response to the racist and distorted portrayals of African Americans in D.W. Griffith's "The Birth of a Nation." Oscar Micheaux's contributions to cinema have had a lasting impact on the representation of African Americans in film and his work remains influential in the history of Black filmmaking.