Benjamin Banneker: Colonial Genius Shining in the Darkness

Benjamin Banneker, who was born free in 1731, was a farmer, a self-taught astronomer and mathematician who is best known for lending his scientific abilities when the U.S. capitol was first being surveyed. He used astronomy and math to write the stuff of almanacs, one of which he boldly sent, along with a personal letter, to Thomas Jefferson, then Secretary of State, as proof of what men with African ancestry could do, if only given the opportunity. Benjamin Banneker: Colonial Genius Shining in the Darkness is a birth-to-life biography, perfect for fourth grade learners.