Maya Angelou: A Life in American History
By (Author) F. Erik Brooks
By (author) Erin W. Gilliam
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Greenwood Press
3rd April 2025
United States
Primary and Secondary Educational
Non Fiction
Hardback
264
Width 156mm, Height 235mm
This accessible biography of Maya Angelou provides readers an ideal introduction to the life and times of one of America's most beloved and influential Black artists. Maya Angelou: A Life in American History explores the life of one of the most significant figures of the 20th century. Chronological chapters chart major events in Angelous life, examining how these events influenced her personally and professionally. Her life is also deeply situated within the social and cultural context of her time, with an examination of the impact of era-defining events such as the Harlem Renaissance and civil rights movement. Through this biography, readers will understand how Angelou has shaped and continues to influence Black culture and American history, with an enduring legacy of artistry and meaningful social activism that continues to inspire millions of Americans and many more around the world. To enrich and consolidate understanding, the work includes a timeline of key events in Angelou's life, primary documents, and a bibliography to aid in further research.
Erin W. Gilliam is Associate Vice President for Retention at Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas, USA. F. Erik Brooks is Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, USA.