* Author: While poetry is her most famous work, Angelou was a prolific author who also wrote autobiographies, essays, and plays. Her autobiographical series, starting with "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings", is considered a cornerstone of African-American literature.
* Playwright and Screenwriter: She wrote and produced several plays, and contributed to the screenplays of films like "Poetic Justice" and "The Women of Brewster Place".
* Actress: She made appearances in movies and television shows, including "Roots", "Touched by an Angel", and "The Muppet Show".
* Professor: She held teaching positions at Wake Forest University, the University of California at San Diego, and the University of Texas at Austin.
* Civil Rights Activist: Angelou was deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement and worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. She served as the Northern Coordinator for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and was a vocal advocate for social justice.
* Singer and Dancer: She was a talented singer and dancer in her youth and even had a brief stint as a nightclub performer.
* Public Speaker and Lecturer: Angelou was a powerful and inspiring speaker, frequently addressing audiences on topics like equality, resilience, and the human spirit.
* Diplomat: She served as a special envoy to Africa for President Bill Clinton.
Maya Angelou's multifaceted life is a testament to her incredible talent, unwavering spirit, and dedication to social change.