
1928–2014
Poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist who authored 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.'
Maya Angelou was an American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. She published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, several books of poetry, and was credited with a list of plays, movies, and television shows.
Published 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings'
Read her poem at President Clinton's inauguration
Received the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Won three Grammy Awards for spoken word albums
Angelou's powerful voice and literary genius made her one of the most influential writers of the 20th century, inspiring millions with her resilience and wisdom.