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Discuss the impact of Maya Angelou on American society.

This is a difficult question because of the tremendous impact that Maya Angelou had on a number of different areas.  Her book I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings was groundbreaking work of non-fiction.  The book gave voice to the struggles of African-Americans and women and discussed the difficult topic of overcoming sexual abuse.  The book was just the beginning of an accomplished literary career that saw her win Pulitzer Prizes and New York Times Best Seller accolades.  She actually was honored to read one of her works of poetry at President Bill Clinton's Inaugural Address.   


Angelou did not just write about the civil rights struggle, she worked hard in the movement itself.  She was very active in the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, an organization that was run by Dr. Martin Luther King.  She won a variety of awards for her acting abilities as well.  She was a very talented women that was a source of pride for the African-American community.  Angelou was respected by all Americans because of her ability to overcome great odds and difficulties to become a success in a variety of fields. 

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