A tobacco farmer, and amateur astronomer, Benjamin Banneker was an inspiration for his mathematical achievements. He is frequently described as the first African American man of science. Early Life. Banneker was born free in Baltimore County, Maryland, on 9 November 1731.Click to see full answer. Beside this, who influenced Benjamin Banneker?At the age of fifty-eight Banneker became interested in astronomy (the study of the universe) through the influence of a neighbor, George Ellicott, who lent him several books on the subject as well as a telescope and drafting instruments (tools used in astronomy).Also, how did Benjamin Banneker impact the world? Benjamin Banneker (1731-1806) demonstrated that African Americans were capable of scientific and technological achievements. Although the American Revolution had secured political independence, the former colonies, merged into a confederation of state governments, experienced strife between and within the states. Correspondingly, what inspired Benjamin Banneker to do what he did? Banneker was encouraged in the study of astronomy by George Ellicott, a Quaker and amateur astronomer whose family owned nearby mills. As early as 1788, Banneker began to make astronomical calculations, and he accurately predicted a solar eclipse that occurred in 1789.What made Benjamin Banneker famous?Benjamin Banneker (November 9, 1731 – October 19, 1806) was a free African-American almanac author, surveyor, naturalist, and farmer. He is known for being part of a group led by Major Andrew Ellicott that surveyed the original borders of the District of Columbia, the federal capital district of the United States.
