Maya Angelou is one of the most prominent American writers, activists, and creative minds in recent history. Angelou has an extensive list of published works, including the famous biography of her youth I Know Why the Caged Bird SingsThe Heart of a Woman, and Letter to My Daughter, among other titles.

You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.

Angelou, throughout her life, has accumulated over 50 honorary degrees, as well as winning the highest civilian honor from President Barack Obama for her writing and her involvement in the civil rights movement.