Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou, born Marguerite Annie Johnson on April 4, 1928, in St. Louis, Missouri, was an American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. She is best known for her autobiographical works, particularly her groundbreaking memoir, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings."

Angelou had a tumultuous childhood, marked by trauma and instability. At the age of eight, she was raped by her mother's boyfriend, an experience that left her mute for several years. Despite this trauma, Angelou found solace in literature and began writing poetry at a young age.

In her late teens, Angelou became involved in the arts and entertainment industry, working as a dancer, singer, and actress. She toured Europe with a production of the opera "Porgy and Bess" and later joined the Harlem Writers Guild in New York City.

Angelou's literary career took off with the publication of her first autobiography, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," in 1969. The book, which chronicled her childhood experiences, including racism, trauma, and resilience, became an international bestseller and a landmark work in African American literature.

Throughout her life, Angelou wrote numerous books, poems, and essays, exploring themes of identity, race, gender, and resilience. She became a prominent voice in the civil rights movement, working closely with leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.

In addition to her writing, Angelou was a respected educator and public speaker, delivering powerful speeches and lectures on topics ranging from literature to social justice. She also held several academic appointments, including a lifetime professorship at Wake Forest University.

Angelou's impact on American culture and literature is immeasurable. She received numerous awards and honors throughout her lifetime, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the National Medal of Arts, and three Grammy Awards for her spoken word albums.

Maya Angelou passed away on May 28, 2014, but her legacy as a pioneering writer, activist, and humanitarian continues to inspire people around the world. Her words and wisdom resonate with readers of all backgrounds, and her life serves as a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and compassion.

The unisex soft-style t-shirt puts a new spin on casual comfort. Made from very soft materials, this tee is 100% cotton for solid colors. Heather colors and sports grey include polyester. The shoulders have twill tape for improved durability. There are no side seams. The collar is made with ribbed knitting to prevent curling damage.

.: Made with 100% ring-spun cotton, a lightweight fabric (4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²)), this unisex t-shirt feels like a bliss to wear all year round.
.: The classic fit with the crew neckline deliver a clean, versatile style that can match any occasion, whether it's formal or semi-formal.
.: All shirts feature a pearlized, tear-away label for total wearing comfort.
.: Made using ethically grown and harvested US cotton. Gildan is also a proud member of the US Cotton Trust Protocol ensuring ethical and sustainable means of production. This blank tee is certified by Oeko-Tex for safety and quality assurance.
.: Fabric blends: Heather colors - 35% ring-spun cotton, 65% polyester; Sport Grey and Antique colors - 90% cotton, 10% polyester, Graphite Heather - 50% ring-spun cotton, 50% polyester