Famed American Poet Maya Angelou Dies at 86

She was one of America's most popular and recognizable literary figures for a half century.  Maya Angelou, who was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, has died at the age of 86.

Her most famous work, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, (1969) is a searing look back on the struggles of her own life.  The poet was also a participant in early Civil Rights activities with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.  She was a writer, actress, singer, activist, world celebrity.