Maya Angelou made a name for herself as an accomplished author, poet and influential civil rights activist. Born in 1928 in Missouri, she grew up in a turbulent America, one filled with segregation, racial violence and poverty. In spite of all this she was determined to make something of her life and she succeeded. Here’s how she became famous.
Foster Care
At the age of three Maya was sent to live with her grandmother in Arkansas. Her parents, who had separated before her birth, could not care for her. There she learned the importance of family, spirituality and the power of civil rights. Although she was living in poverty, Maya was surrounded by a loving and caring community. Through her grandmother’s church, Maya was able to experience music, culture and, perhaps most importantly, language. Here she was encouraged to read and write, and she learned the power of language to express herself.
Opportunities
At the age of 16, she left her family to live with her mother in San Francisco. There she attended school and further developed her passion for writing. Around this time she became interested in the civil rights movement and was involved with many protests and marches. In the mid-1950s she became a part of the Harlem Writers Guild, which was a literary organization, and it was here that she began to write her first book, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.
I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Angelou released her first memoir, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, in 1969 and it instantly became a bestseller. In the book she recounted her upbringing and struggles with racism, abuse and public humiliation during her childhood. The story resonated with a generation of readers who were eager to hear stories of how one could triumph over adversity. It was praised by many, including the late scholar and educator Dr. Maya Angelou. The book’s success was a pivotal point in Angelou’s career and she became one of the most recognizable figures of the civil rights movement.
More Books & Education
Angelou went on to write more books, including two autobiographical volumes: All God’s Children Need Traveling Shoes and A Song Flung Up to Heaven. She worked with numerous poets and novelists of her time and received many awards, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012. She was also an educator, teaching writing and literature at Wake Forest University in North Carolina for 32 years. She was an active supporter of civil rights and worked closely with the NAACP to push for social justice.
Recognition & Legacy
Angelou was an advocate for all women, teaching them that no matter the odds, they could make a difference in the world. Her works inspired many and her powerful spoken word performances engaged audiences. She was a powerful voice for the oppressed, and she will continue to be remembered for her commitment to civil rights. Maya Angelou has since left a lasting legacy in the literary world, and her words will be remembered for generations.
Political Activism
Angelou was an important member of the African-American intellectual community. She was active in the civil rights movement and was a staunch advocate of racial equality. She worked closely with Malcolm X and even attended Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963. She was a volunteer coordinator for Robert F. Kennedy in 1968 and was part of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1971. Angelou served on many boards and panels that worked to advance civil rights. Her activism often intersected with her writing, and many of her works carried underlying themes of equality and justice.
Public Speaking
In addition to her written works, Angelou was known for her public speaking. She was a passionate and inspirational orator, delivering speeches at universities and events around the world. In 1993, she delivered her poem “On the Pulse of Morning” during Bill Clinton’s inauguration. Her words captivated the nation and she was praised for her eloquence and grace. The poem has since become one of her most beloved works and has been inducted into the American Poetry Library.
Media Coverage
Angelou’s efforts and story were often featured in various forms of media. The New York Times featured her many times, commending her achievements, commenting on her thoughts and recognizing her inspiring work. In 1995, CBS premiered a movie based on her book, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, which was directed by poet, playwright and producer LeVar Burton. Angelou effectively became a household name, and the media recognized her as an iconic figure of international renown.
Compassion for Humanity
Angelou had a deep compassion for humanity and embraced people from all backgrounds and walks of life. She derived comfort from writing, carried a passion for education, and encouraged others to rise above adversity. She viewed experience as a teacher, and she continually urged others to comfort one another and learn from their struggles. She was an advocate for kindness and understanding, and she believed that a unified community could create a more just world.Angelou’s message of unity and strength continues to be felt and celebrated today.
