Lena Horne was a groundbreaking African American singer, actress, and civil rights activist who rose to fame during the mid-20th century. She was born on June 30, 1917, in Brooklyn, New York, and began her career as a performer at a young age. Horne faced significant challenges as a Black entertainer during a time of widespread racial segregation and discrimination in the United States.

Horne's talent and beauty quickly caught the attention of Hollywood, and she signed a contract with MGM in the 1940s. However, due to the prevailing racism of the era, her roles in films were often limited to singing performances that could be easily edited out for audiences in segregated Southern states. Despite these obstacles, Horne used her platform to speak out against racial injustice and became a prominent voice in the civil rights movement.

Throughout her career, Horne was known for her activism, refusing to perform for segregated audiences and using her influence to advocate for racial equality. She also appeared in various films, including "Cabin in the Sky" and "Stormy Weather," and released numerous hit songs such as "Stormy Weather" and "Love Me or Leave Me."

Lena Horne's contributions to both the entertainment industry and the civil rights movement have left a lasting impact on Black history. Her legacy continues to inspire generations of performers and activists who strive for social justice and equality.