Maya Angelou was one of the most influential and powerful literary figures of our time. Her work has changed how people think about literature, culture and politics. Angelou was a renowned poet, novelist, civil rights campaigner, lecturer and actress, who had a profound effect on the world. She achieved a multitude of accomplishments throughout her lifetime, ranging from being awarded incredible honors to inspiring generations. Here we explore in depth her major accomplishments.
Poetry
Angelou’s prolific poetry was perhaps one of her most admired accomplishments. Through her works she addressed issues of civil rights, racial pride and sexism. She wrote seven poetry volumes, starting with The Complete Collected Poems of Maya Angelou in 1994. Her 1971 memoir, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, became the first nonfiction best-seller by an African American woman. In 1993, she became the first African American woman to take part in the Pulitzer Prize for poetry.
Acting
In the theatre, Angelou performed in many plays such as The Blacks, Cabaret for Freedom and Look Away. She also starred in a few movies, including Soul of the Straits, How to Make An American Quilt and, most notably, Richard Linklater’s Teacher and Rye. Angelou also made a number of appearances on TV shows, such as Sesame Street and attempted directing with the movie Down in the Delta.
Civil Rights
Angelou supported civil rights campaigns in the US and abroad throughout her life. Probably her most defining moment was when she read her poem On the Pulse of Morning at Bill Clinton’s Inauguration in1993. She was also greatly involved in encouraging the disaffected and spoke out against sexism and racism wherever she encountered it. Angelou was a close friend of Martin Luther King and Malcolm X, working for both.
Public Speaking
Aside from her writing and acting, Angelou was sought after as a public speaker. She lectured around the world, and in 1994 became Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest. She was also a great storyteller and combined music, poetry and anecdotes to form her lectures. In her later years she worked tirelessly as a political activist and donor speaker.
Recognition and Awards
In terms of awards and recognition, Angelou was widely honored. She won the Letter of Distinction from the American Academy of Arts and Lettersin 1998, and was selected to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest honor for American citizens, in 2011. During her lifetime she also received the National Medal of Arts, the Lincoln Medal, Grammy Awards and an Emmy nomination, as well as honorary degrees from many universities.
Literary Works
Angelou was also a gifted and successful novelist. She wrote seven autobiographies, beginning with I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings in 1969, which were all highly praised and enjoyed commercial success. Her other works include the poetry volumes Just Give Me a Cool Drink of Water ‘Fore I Die (1971), Oh Pray My Wings Are Gonna Fit Me Well (1975), Heart of a Woman (1981) and Shaker Why Don’t You Sing (1983).
Philanthropy and Teaching
Throughout her career Angelou gave back to the community, sharing her knowledge and supporting educational programs. She served as a Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University, North Carolina. Angelou also taught human rights literacy in northern California prisons, where her classrooms included both men and women.
Final Years
In her last years, Angelou provided advice to various people, from world leaders such as Barack Obama and Nelson Mandela, to college graduates. It is believed that she started to work on a new book in her later years, with plans to follow on from her letter to her younger self, Letter to My Daughter, published in 2010. Despite her failing health in her final years, Angelou continued to perform and campaign for causes she believed in.
Legacy
The legacy that Angelou left behind is evident today, with her works still inspiring people around the world. Since her death in 2014 she has featured prominently in books, music, documentaries and art. Angelou had an incredible impact on how we think about literacy and politics, with many prepared to relentlessly quote her work. Her literary accomplishments, civil rights activism and overall influence have positioned her as a huge cultural icon.
Public Engagement
Angelou’s engaging nature and skill for connecting with people was admired worldwide. During her lifetime she gave countless interviews and engaged with people in communities around the world. In 2011 she even started her own podcast, named Conversations with Maya Angelou. Her works were often universal and she personally addressed thousands of individuals, allowing people to learn from her through her own words.
Social Commentary
Not only did Angelou champion the civil rights of African Americans, she also spoke out on a worldwide level about equality issues. Her social commentary highlighted both the problems and potential solutions to discrimination, inequality and oppression. Her poetic approach to these topics was poignant and sincere, creating an inspiring and thought-provoking atmosphere of awareness.
