After battling health problems, the legendary Dr. Maya Angelou passed away due to an unknown illness.  
Born Marguerite Johnson in St. Louis on April 4, 1928, Angelou is famous for iconic work like her book I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings and the poem "On the Pulse of Morning," which she recited in 1993 at President Bill Clinton's inauguration. Angelou appeared in several films, including 1977's Roots and 1993's Poetic Justice, which made her poem "Phenomenal Woman" an anthem for women of all backgrounds and sizes. In later years, Angelou was also known as a mentor to Oprah Winfrey and famously told the mogul, "When someone shows you who they are, believe them."  
Maya's activism was a steady force throughout her life. She fought for equality on all levels and once said, "Prejudice is a burden that confuses the past, threatens the future and renders the present inaccessible."

The iconic Maya Angelou will be deeply missed. Our condolences to Dr. Angelou's fans, friends and family.
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(Photo: WENN.com)