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Home / People / Benjamin Banneker

Historical person

Benjamin Banneker

1731–1806

Born free in Maryland, Banneker educated himself in mathematics and astronomy and produced calculations for a series of widely circulated almanacs. He also participated briefly in the survey that established the boundaries of the federal district.

In 1791 Banneker sent Thomas Jefferson a manuscript almanac and a letter confronting the contradiction between American liberty and slavery. His scientific work and public argument made him an important example of Black intellectual achievement in the early republic.

Non Fiction

Non Fiction featuring Benjamin Banneker (1 book)

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