Maya Angelou at Spelman College

Dr. Maya Angelou was a poet, professor, memoirist, actor, singer, author, educator and civil rights activist. She published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, several books of poetry, and appeared in numerous plays, movies, and television shows over a 65 year career. She received dozens of awards and more than 50 honorary degrees

In literary circles, Maya Angelou is best known for her series of seven autobiographies, which focus on her childhood and early adult experiences. The first, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (1969), tells of her life up to the age of 17 and brought her international recognition and acclaim.

Her books center on themes including racism, identity, and family

She was active in the Civil Rights Movement and worked closely with both Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. 

On January 20, 1993, Angelou became the second poet in American history -- and the first African American and woman -- to read a poem at a presidential inauguration, when she recited her original work "On the Pulse of Morning" at the first inauguration of Bill Clinton.

She was the first poet to make an inaugural recitation since Robert Frost at the inauguration of John F. Kennedy in 1961.

Angelou's audio recording of the poem won the 1993 Grammy Award for "Best Spoken Word" - introducing her to a whole new generation and bringing much deserved recognition for her previous works.

As evidenced by her Grammy win - Maya Angelou was as brilliant a performer as she was a writer.

In 2011 - she awarded the national’s highest civilian honor - the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

But of all her awards and accolades - one of the most memorable was her 1992 commencement address at Spelman College -an private historically black women's liberal arts college in Atlanta, Georgia, 

The Spelman Messenger later wrote - 

“ Maya Angelou left an indelible mark upon the world. Her wit, wisdom, and work will continue to inspire generations of Spelman women.” 

With that - let’s listen to Grammy winning poet Maya Angelou and her iconic 1992 Spelman College Commencement Address

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