Maya Angelou's early life experiences significantly shaped her perspectives on race and feminism. Growing up in the segregated South, Angelou faced profound racism and trauma, including her childhood sexual abuse, which fostered a lifelong commitment to social justice. Her storied life, marked by adversity and resilience, influenced her writing in works like "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings." Through her poetry and prose, Angelou articulated the struggles of marginalized voices, advocating for both racial equality and women's rights. Her unique perspective as a Black woman in America enriched discussions on empowerment and identity, inspiring future generations.