Lena Horne, an American jazz singer and actress, has died in New York at the age of 92.

She was the first black woman to sign a meaningful long-term contract with a major film studio, and broke down barriers during the years of racial segregation in the US.

Using her celebrity, she brought attention to the civil rights movement.

Al Jazeera's Kimberly Halkett looks back at the life of the actress who elevated the image of the African American woman in Hollywood from supporting to starring roles.