The Oscar 'Pioneers': Famous 'First' Winners of Academy Awards

There is always room for arguing when it comes to the art of cinema or any other form of artistic expression.

However, this time we've decided to offer you a selection of photos featuring the famous actors, actresses and directors who became the first-ever Oscar winners in their nominations since the establishment of the Academy Awards.

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Italian star Sophia Loren became the first actress to receive an Oscar for a non-English speaking role.

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Robert De Niro was the first actor to win an Oscar for non-English performance in The Godfather (Part II), released in 1974

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Halle Berry of the US was the first African-American actress to win the top award for the best actress category.

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Actress Bette Davis, who was the first person to receive 10 Oscar nominations, and actor Spencer Tracy at the 1938 Annual Academy Awards at the Biltmore Bowl, Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles, Ca., Feb. 23, 1939.

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Charlize Theron became the first Africa-born actress to win an Oscar

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George C. Scott (left) became the first actor to refuse an Oscar

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Mahershala Ali was the first Muslim actor to win an Oscar

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Nicole Kidman became the first Australian actress to receive an Oscar

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Kathryn Bigelow (C) was the first female director to win an Oscar

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Natalie Portman was the first Middle Eastern actress to win an Oscar