On November 25, 1792, Benjamin Banneker—a self-taught surveyor, mathematician, farmer, and astronomer—published his first almanac, demonstrating remarkable scientific skill at a time when few African Americans were recognized for such achievements. He went on to publish six almanacs filled with farming guides, medical notes, tides, astronomy, and eclipse predictions, including his accurate calculation of the 1789 solar eclipse, and he boldly spoke against slavery in letters to Thomas Jefferson. Banneker’s legacy, alongside the long tradition of American almanacs like The Old Farmer’s Almanac, reminds us of the value of preparation, knowledge, and seeking truth. His dedication invites us to use scripture as our own guide through life’s uncertainties and to live ready, “that we need not fear,” in His Story today.
Read the full article here: https://familyschool.org/spotlight/farmers-almanac-6
This episode was created using Notebook LM voice-overs and original research by Rosemary Pollock, historian and published author, who holds an MA in U.S. History and an MA in U.S. History with a focus on the History of Science and Medicine.
Produced by Isaac Okawa with American Heritage Worldwide.
