What was Maya Angelou's Net Worth?
Maya Angelou, an acclaimed American poet, author, teacher, activist, actress, and speaker, had a net worth of $10 million at her death in 2014. Known for her compelling works, including the 1969 autobiography I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, Angelou's literary influence remains significant even today. Over her lifetime, she published 36 books and left a remarkable legacy in literature and social activism.
Angelou was a prominent figure in the Civil Rights Movement, marching alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Malcolm X. Her accolades include the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the National Medal of Arts, and three Grammy awards. Notably, she recited her poem "On The Pulse of Morning" at President Bill Clinton's inauguration in 1993.
As an actress, Angelou starred in "Roots" (1977), "Poetic Justice" (1993), "How to Make an American Quilt" (1995), and "Madea's Family Reunion" (2006), and received a Tony nomination for her role in "Look Away" (1973). Angelou passed away in May 2014 at 86, after suffering from a prolonged illness.
Early Life
Maya Angelou was born Marguerite Annie Johnson on April 4, 1928, in St. Louis, Missouri. Her mother Vivian was a nurse, and her father Bailey worked as a navy dietician and a doorman. Her older brother Bailey Jr. coined her nickname “Maya.” After her parents divorced when she was three, Maya and Bailey Jr. moved to live with their grandmother in Stamps, Arkansas.
At age seven, Maya was returned to her mother’s care in St. Louis, where she endured a traumatic incident—being raped by her mother’s boyfriend, Freeman. After Freeman was murdered following his release from a brief jail stint, Maya became mute for nearly five years, believing her words had caused his death. It was through the encouragement of her teacher, Bertha Flowers, that Maya eventually began to speak again.
Angelou attended the Lafayette County Training School and later the California Labor School in San Francisco on a drama and dance scholarship. At 16, she became the city's first Black female streetcar conductor.
Career
In the 1950s, Angelou formed a dance team with Alvin Ailey and later performed professionally under the name Marguerite Johnson. Post-divorce, she adopted the name Maya Angelou. Her career took her to Europe with a production of "Porgy and Bess," and she recorded her first album, "Miss Calypso," in 1957.
Angelou's transition to writing was marked by joining the Harlem Writers Guild and collaborating with civil rights leaders. Her involvement with the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) under Martin Luther King Jr. enhanced her activism profile. In the 1960s, she worked in Africa as an editor and administrator, contributing significantly to civil rights and anti-apartheid movements. Her association with Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. cemented her stance as a prominent activist.
Her literary works began with the acclaimed "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" in 1969, followed by six more autobiographies. She also won acclaim for her contributions to film, theater, and music, including writing the screenplay for "Georgia, Georgia" and directing the film "Down in the Delta."
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In addition to her creative pursuits, Angelou held teaching positions, including a lifetime professorship at Wake Forest University. Her mentorship of Oprah Winfrey further extended her influence. In later years, she donated memorabilia and served as a consultant for significant cultural projects.
Personal Life
Angelou was married twice, first to Enistasious "Tosh" Angelos (1951-1954) and later to Paul Du Feu (1974-1983). She had one son, Guy B. Johnson, who survived a severe car accident and became a published author himself. Angelou's love for cooking led her to publish two cookbooks, further showcasing her multifaceted talents.
Death
Maya Angelou passed away on May 28, 2014. In her final days, she continued to work on a new autobiography. Her family announced her peaceful passing, and tributes flowed, including from President Barack Obama, who called her a “truly phenomenal woman.” Memorial services at Wake Forest University and San Francisco’s Glide Memorial Church celebrated her extraordinary life.
Awards and Honors
Angelou's career was decorated with numerous awards, including the Coretta Scott King Award, Langston Hughes Medal, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. She was also honored with three Grammy Awards and multiple NAACP Image Awards. Her contributions were recognized by numerous organizations and institutions, highlighting her lasting impact on literature, activism, and culture.
Real Estate
In 1994, Angelou bought a home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, for $575,000. After her passing, the property underwent significant renovations and changed hands, selling for $2 million in 2020.
