RENOWNED POET, CIVIL RIGHT ACTIVIST, MAYA ANGELOU DIES AT 86

Dr Maya Angelou, the Award-winning author, renowned poet and civil rights activist is dead. Dr Maya who has been battling an undisclosed ailment, was found dead this morning by her caretaker. Mayor Allen Jones confirmed Angelou's death to Fox News today.

Maya Angelou, was one of the most influential voices in her time, she is a celebrated poet, novelist, educator, producer, actress, filmmaker and civil rights activist . Dr Maya's first book, her autobiography "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," made her one of the first African-American to write a best seller. In 1998, She directed the movie "Down in the Delta". She was also chosen to read at President Bill Clinton's first inauguration in 1993. She wrote and read an original composition, "On the Pulse of Morning," which also became a million-seller.

She has received over 50 honorary degrees and was Reynolds Professor of American Studies at Wake Forest University.

Dr Maya was 86 years old at the time of her death.

Dr Maya in her Youth