American Masters Season 31 Episode 2 Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise

Maya Angelou was one of the most influential writers and activists of the 20th century. She was a poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist whose work addressed themes of race, gender, and identity. American Masters season 31, episode 2, "Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise" explores her life, work, and legacy through interviews with the people who knew her best.

The episode features archival footage of Angelou, as well as interviews with her family, friends, and fellow writers. It delves into her early life in the segregated South, her experiences as a single mother and a dancer, and the momentous events that shaped her career, including her involvement in the civil rights movement.

"Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise" also explores Angelou's writing process and the way she crafted her iconic works, including "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," "Gather Together In My Name," and "The Heart of a Woman." Viewers will learn about Angelou's relationship with her mother, her friendship with James Baldwin, and her experience working with Martin Luther King, Jr.

The episode also explores the many roles Angelou played in her lifetime, including actress, singer, and producer. It examines her involvement in the arts and her contributions to black culture, including her work with the Harlem Writers Guild and her role in the making of the groundbreaking television series "Roots."

Throughout "Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise," viewers will be inspired by Angelou's commitment to social justice and her unwavering dedication to telling the truth. The episode highlights her influence on generations of writers and activists and explores the legacy she left behind.

"Maya Angelou: And Still I Rise" is a moving portrait of one of the most powerful voices of the 20th century. Through interviews, footage, and expert analysis, viewers will come to better understand the life and work of a cultural icon while also being challenged to consider the ongoing struggles for racial and social justice.