Lena Horne was a trailblazing African American singer, actress, and civil rights activist who achieved great success in the entertainment industry despite facing racism and discrimination throughout her career. Born in 1917, Horne began her career as a dancer at the famous Cotton Club in Harlem before transitioning to singing and acting.

She became one of the first Black performers to sign a long-term contract with a major Hollywood studio, MGM, in the 1940s. However, she faced challenges due to the racial prejudice of the time, which often limited the types of roles she was offered. Horne refused to play stereotypical roles that relied on racial stereotypes and often found herself with limited opportunities as a result.

Throughout her career, Horne used her platform to speak out against racial injustice and segregation. She participated in civil rights marches and rallies and used her voice to advocate for social change. Horne was also a member of prominent civil rights organizations, including the NAACP.

In addition to her activism, Lena Horne was a talented singer known for her distinctive voice and performances. She recorded numerous hit songs, including "Stormy Weather" and "Love Me Or Leave Me," and appeared in films such as "Cabin in the Sky" and "Stormy Weather."

Lena Horne's legacy lives on as a pioneering figure in Black history and the entertainment industry. She broke barriers for future generations of Black performers and used her platform to advocate for civil rights and social justice.