Benjamin Banneker was a free African American mathematician, astronomer, almanac author, and farmer. Born in 1731 in Maryland, he is best known for his work in helping to survey the land that would become Washington, D.C. Banneker was largely self-taught and became a significant figure in the early history of the United States.

He is known for his almanacs, which included astronomical calculations, tide tables, and weather predictions. Banneker's work in predicting lunar and solar eclipses was widely respected, and he corresponded with Thomas Jefferson, challenging him on his views on race and slavery.

Banneker's accomplishments are particularly notable given the limitations imposed on African Americans during his time. He used his knowledge and skills to advocate for racial equality and to debunk racist theories that white superiority was due to intellectual or moral superiority.

Benjamin Banneker is celebrated as a pioneer in the fields of science and mathematics and as a trailblazer for African Americans in those disciplines.