Maya Angelou

writer · civil rights · autobiography · poet

Seven life stories. Maya Angelou wrote seven autobiographies that shared her incredible journey from childhood through adulthood. Her most famous book, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," told the story of her life up to age 17 and made her famous worldwide.

Many kinds of writing. She didn't just write autobiographies. Maya Angelou also wrote poetry, essays, plays, and even worked on movies and television shows across more than 50 years of her career.

Award winner. Throughout her life, Maya Angelou received dozens of awards and over 50 honorary degrees from universities that wanted to honor her important work and ideas.

Voice for change. As a civil rights activist, Maya Angelou used her powerful writing and speaking to help fight for equality and justice during a time when many people faced unfair treatment.