Maya Angelou overcame numerous obstacles in her early life that profoundly informed her writings. Experiencing trauma, including childhood sexual abuse and racial discrimination, she faced immense challenges that shaped her perspective. Despite these struggles, Angelou emerged as a powerful voice for civil rights and women's empowerment. Her autobiographical works, particularly "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," reflect resilience, strength, and the transformative power of storytelling. Through her literary contributions and public speaking, Angelou championed the human spirit’s capacity to rise above adversity, making her an enduring figure in American literature and social justice.