Benjamin Banneker was a free African American scientist, surveyor, almanac author and farmer. Born in Baltimore County, Maryland, to a free African American woman and a former slave, Banneker had little formal education and was largely self-taught. He is known for being part of a group led by Major Andrew Ellicott that surveyed the borders of the original District of Columbia, the federal capital district of the United States.
Banneker's knowledge of astronomy helped him author a commercially successful series of almanacs. He corresponded with Thomas Jefferson, drafter of the United States Declaration of Independence, on the topics of slavery and racial equality. Abolitionists and advocates of racial equality promoted and praised his works.
Parks, schools, streets and other tributes have commemorated Banneker throughout the years since he lived. However, many accounts of his life exaggerate or falsely attribute his works.
Presumption should never make us neglect that which appears easy to us, nor despair make us lose courage at the sight of difficulties. courage
The colour of the skin is in no way connected with strength of the mind or intellectual powers. strength
Evil communication corrupts good manners. I hope to live to hear that good communication corrects bad manners. communication & hope
There is no language like the Irish for soothing and quieting. 3 wisdom & wit from John Millington Synge
3 wisdom & wit from John Millington Synge
Being Irish, he had an abiding sense of tragedy, which sustained him through temporary periods of joy. 28 quotes from William Butler Yeats
28 quotes from William Butler Yeats
Geographically, Ireland is a medium-sized rural island that is slowly but steadily being consumed by sheep. 27 other sayings from Dave Barry
27 other sayings from Dave Barry
We have always found the Irish a bit odd. They refuse to be English. 74 quotes from Winston Churchill
74 quotes from Winston Churchill