Benjamin Banneker was born on November 9, 1731 in Maryland. His father and grandfather were former slaves. Despite being a farmer of modest means, he lived a life of unusual achievement. He was unwilling to let his race or age hinder in any way his thirst for intellectual development and has become known as an American Scientific Pioneer. To learn more about this inspirational African American read this Signature Lives book about him. Other biographies on him for youth are also available at the library. Check some out!