As a largely self-taught mathematician and astronomer, Benjamin Banneker paved the way for many African Americans in the fields of math and science. He would go on to develop many scientific discoveries we use today.
By Nehemiah Bester, Communications Strategist, Communications
Born in 1731, in Ellicott’s Mills in Baltimore County, Benjamin Banneker was one of the first African Americans to gain distinction in science. Coming from a humble beginning on his family’s farm, Banneker taught himself astronomy by watching the stars and learning advanced math from borrowed textbooks.
During his lifetime, Banneker is known for many things including farming, surveyor, almanac author, among others. He was also instrumental in assisting Major Andrew Ellicott in establishing the original borders for the District of Columbia,
Banneker’s abilities impressed many people including Thomas Jefferson whom he corresponded with on issues of slavery, and racial equality, urging the future president at the time, to abolish slavery.
By 1789 Banneker had successfully made astronomical calculations that allowed him to successfully predict a solar eclipse.
Benjamin Banneker’s success inspired many and showed evidence of early African-American achievement in the sciences.
Please see Today in History for more information and historical figures who helped shaped our future.
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