According to reports of the international media, the American poet, author and activist Maya Angelou passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86.

Angelou was born on April 4, 1928. The Award-winning poet was an extremely multi-talented, charismatic person. She was an actor, writer, director, and producer of plays, movies, and public television programs, while also being active in the American Civil Rights Movement.

In 1951, she married Greek sailor Anastasior Angelos, whose surname she chose to keep after their separation, as it was distinctive, set her apart and captured the feel of her Calypso dance performances.