Exam 4: Rising Expectations: African Americans and the Struggle for Independence

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The stories of Phillis Wheatley and Benjamin Banneker during the Black Enlightenment tell us about the intellectual and cultural achievements of African Americans during this period.

Phillis Wheatley was a poet who was enslaved as a child and brought to America from West Africa. Despite her circumstances, she became the first African American and one of the first women to publish a book of poetry in the United States. Her work demonstrated the intellectual capabilities of African Americans and challenged the prevailing stereotypes of the time.

Benjamin Banneker was a self-taught mathematician, astronomer, and surveyor who became known for his almanacs and his role in surveying the land for the construction of Washington, D.C. His accomplishments highlighted the intellectual contributions of African Americans in the fields of science and mathematics.

Both Wheatley and Banneker's stories illustrate the resilience, intelligence, and creativity of African Americans during the Black Enlightenment. Their achievements challenged the prevailing racist attitudes and contributed to the broader movement for equality and recognition of African American intellectual and cultural contributions. Their stories also serve as a reminder of the rich and diverse history of African American achievement and the importance of recognizing and celebrating these contributions.