One Minute History - Benjamin Banneker

A brief, one minute history of some of histories most interesting people you may not have heard of before.
Benjamin Banneker, born in 1731, was an African-American mathematician, astronomer, and surveyor. Despite being born into slavery, Banneker taught himself mathematics and astronomy and became known for his intellectual abilities. He is best known for his almanacs, which contained astronomical calculations, tide tables, and weather information. Banneker's almanacs were widely respected and became important references for farmers, navigators, and scientists. He also contributed to the surveying of Washington, D.C., working on the team that laid out the plans for the nation's capital. Benjamin Banneker's accomplishments as a self-taught mathematician and astronomer in a time of racial prejudice are a testament to his brilliance and perseverance. His achievements have left an indelible mark on the history of African-American intellectual contributions.