If you've ever wondered where your favorite star was born, perhaps it was through their slight accent, or a phrase or gesture, that you caught onto the secret of their birthplace.

No matter how hard some of them have tried to change the way they speak through speech lessons, it is possible to pick up an accent. For others, however, the way they talk or act is completely fine with them - and by their actions alone, some rich and famous people are easily figured out.

Maya Angelou is a writer, artist and poet recognized all over the world for her work, particularly her book 'I Know Why The Caged Bird Sings' - but she has humble beginnings in the Midwest.

Angelou was born April 4, 1928 in St. Louis, Missouri, the second child of a Navy man and a nurse.

Angelou's older brother, Bailey Jr., nicknamed Marguerite "Maya", shortened from "my-a-sister". Go here to read her fascinating life story. Visit her website here