Cecil Gaines is a fictional character from the film The Butler, which is inspired by the life of Eugene Allen, a real-life butler who served in the White House for several decades. In the movie, Cecil is portrayed as a dedicated servant who works his way up from humble beginnings on a cotton plantation to become a butler for several U.S. presidents. Throughout his career, Cecil witnesses significant historical events and social changes, including the Civil Rights Movement. His experiences reflect the struggles and triumphs of African Americans during the 20th century, highlighting themes of family, loyalty, and resilience.