Who became the first African American woman to win the Best Actress Oscar in 2002 for Monster's Ball?

• A. Halle Berry
• B. Viola Davis
• C. Octavia Spencer
• D. Lupita Nyong'o

Answer: (A)

Winning the Best Actress Oscar in 2002 marked a historic moment when a Black woman was recognized in the lead acting category for the first time. Halle Berry’s portrayal of Leticia in Monster’s Ball was powerful and deeply resonant, earning her the Academy’s top honor for a lead performance. This category honors the primary, central character, and Berry’s win stood out as a milestone for representation in the highest film awards.

The other actresses listed are acclaimed Oscar winners, but in different contexts: they won in supporting categories or in later years, not the Best Actress award at that time. That’s why Halle Berry is the correct answer for this specific question.