Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou is a renowned American poet, author, and civil rights activist. She was born in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1928, and her given name was Marguerite Annie Johnson. She spent much of her early life in Stamps, Arkansas, where she experienced racism and discrimination firsthand. These experiences had a profound impact on her later work as a writer and activist.

Angelou's writing is known for its powerful and inspiring themes, as well as its exploration of issues of identity, race, and gender. She is perhaps best known for her autobiographical works, including her debut memoir, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," which was published in 1969 and chronicled her experiences growing up in the Jim Crow South.

Angelou's poetry is equally renowned and often draws on her experiences as a black woman in America. Her most famous poem, "Still I Rise," is a powerful affirmation of self-worth and resilience in the face of adversity. Other notable works include "Phenomenal Woman," "On the Pulse of Morning," and "And Still I Rise."

Throughout her life, Angelou was also an active participant in the civil rights movement. She worked with Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, among others, and used her writing and speaking platforms to advocate for racial justice and equality. She also worked as a journalist, actress, and professor, and received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to literature and civil rights.

Maya Angelou passed away in 2014 at the age of 86, but her work continues to inspire and influence people around the world. Her legacy as a poet, author, and civil rights activist remains a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of using one's voice to advocate for change.