Maya Angelou's life experiences profoundly informed her poetry and activism. Growing up in the segregated South, she faced numerous challenges, including racism and personal trauma, which shaped her worldview and artistic voice. Her autobiographical works, particularly "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," illuminate struggles with identity, oppression, and resilience. Angelou's emphasis on empowerment and social justice resonated through her poetry and public speaking, advocating for civil rights and equality. By sharing her experiences, she inspired countless individuals and emphasized the power of words and storytelling as tools for change.