Create Hub
search buttonadd
Sign in
Benjamin Banneker
Benjamin Banneker
Comunity Hub
arrow-down
arrow-down
arrow-down
starMore
arrow-down
Talks
generalgeneral
Pages talks
arrow-right

Media Collections

Benjamin Banneker - free African American scientist, surveyor, almanac author and farmer (1731–1806)

From Wikipedia

Collect and organize photos and videos into themed media collections.

Almanac Publication and Advocacy Timeline

This timeline highlights Banneker's most celebrated achievement: the publication of his almanacs, which showcased his astronomical calculations and contained thought-provoking essays against slavery.
Initial Calculations and Preparation
1791
Following his work on the D.C. survey, Banneker devoted his time to calculating astronomical data for his almanac, which would include tide tables, eclipses, and other useful information for farmers and the general public.
Publication of Banneker's Almanacs
1792-1797
Banneker published annual almanacs for the years 1792 through 1797. These almanacs, published in multiple states, contained his own astronomical calculations and essays against slavery, establishing his reputation as an intellectual figure and abolitionist.
Letter to Thomas Jefferson
August 19, 1791
Banneker wrote a letter to then-Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson, challenging his views on racial equality and urging him to reconsider his stance on slavery. He included a copy of his almanac as evidence of African Americans' intellectual capabilities.
Jefferson's Response
August 30, 1791
Jefferson replied to Banneker's letter, acknowledging his talent and expressing his hope that Banneker's achievements would help to dispel prejudices against African Americans. Jefferson also sent a copy of Banneker's almanac to the Academy of Sciences in Paris.
Recognition and Advocacy Tool
Impact of Almanacs
Banneker's almanacs brought him widespread recognition and became important tools for abolitionists. They provided tangible proof of African American intellectual ability and challenged the prevailing racist ideologies of the time.