Today, as we celebrate poet and civil-rights activist Maya Angelou’s birthday – we honour her voice, her legacy and the truths she so powerfully shared with the world.
This 1968 clip is from her ‘Blacks, Blues, and Black’ series. She discusses how African culture and creativity have significantly influenced European art, highlighting the importance of Africa’s rich cultural history.
Dr. Angelou uses the ancient city of Timbuktu as an example. It was an intellectual and spiritual capital and a centre for the spread of Islam throughout Africa in the 15th and 16th centuries. She notes that scholars from around the world travelled to Timbuktu to study at its renowned university, a hub for those seeking knowledge. Several hundred thousand priceless manuscripts still exist from this period.
Additionally, she points out that famous artists such as Picasso found inspiration in ancient sculptures from Benin and Nigeria.
Happy birthday Maya. Continue to rest in peace.
Video Credit: 1968 Blacks, Blues, Black series