George Washington Carver is born into slavery near Diamond Grove, Missouri, during the final years of the Civil War. His exact birth date is unknown. He is born on the farm of Moses and Susan Carver, who had purchased his mother, Mary, and father, Giles.

George, his mother, and sister are kidnapped by Confederate raiders. Moses Carver hires a neighbor to find them. Only George is recovered, reportedly ransomed for a horse. His mother and sister are never found.

Following the abolition of slavery, George and his brother, James, are raised by Moses and Susan Carver. They are taught to read and write, despite limited access to formal schooling for Black children in the area.

Driven by a thirst for knowledge, George leaves the Carver farm and travels to Neosho, Missouri, to attend a school for Black children. He faces discrimination and hardship but persists in his studies.

He moves between different towns in Kansas and Missouri, working as a farmhand, cook, and doing laundry to support himself and continue his education where possible. He is often denied formal schooling due to racial prejudice.

George adopts the surname 'Carver' to distinguish himself from another George Washington in the area. This marks a significant step towards forging his own identity.

After working to save funds, George is admitted to Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa to study art and music. This is a significant accomplishment considering the racial barriers of the time.