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Unveiling the Hidden Figures: The Pioneering Journey of Black Mathematicians

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Beyond Banneker: Black Mathematicians and the Paths to Excellence

by Erica N. Walker

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4873 KB
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Print length	:	187 pages
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: A Journey of Excellence

The history of mathematics is often told as a narrative of white male geniuses who single-handedly revolutionized the field. But this narrative is incomplete. In the shadows of this history lies the untold stories of Black mathematicians who have made significant contributions to STEM, often in the face of adversity.

Black Mathematicians and the Paths to Excellence seeks to bring these hidden figures to light. This book presents the captivating stories of African American mathematicians from ancient Egypt to the modern era, highlighting their resilience, brilliance, and the transformative impact they had on the world.

Chapter 1: Ancient African Mathematics

The origins of mathematics can be traced back to ancient African civilizations. The Egyptians developed a sophisticated number system, geometry, and algebra. They used mathematics to build pyramids, create calendars, and predict astronomical events.

One of the most famous African mathematicians of this period was Imhotep. He was a polymath who lived around 2600 BC. Imhotep was a physician, architect, and astronomer. He is credited with designing the Great Pyramid of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Chapter 2: Black mathematicians in the Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, Black mathematicians made significant contributions to the development of mathematics in Europe. One of the most influential figures of this period was al-Khwarizmi. He was a Persian mathematician who lived in the 9th century. Al-Khwarizmi is known for his work on algebra and trigonometry.

Another important Black mathematician of this period was Omar Ibn al-Haytham. He was an Arab mathematician who lived in the 10th century. Ibn al-Haytham is known for his work on optics and astronomy. He was the first to explain the principles of how the human eye sees.

Chapter 3: Black mathematicians in the Renaissance and Enlightenment

During the Renaissance and Enlightenment, Black mathematicians continued to make significant contributions to the field. One of the most famous mathematicians of this period was Thomas Fuller. He was a Jamaican mathematician who lived in the 18th century. Fuller is known for his work on algebra and calculus.

Another important Black mathematician of this period was Benjamin Banneker. He was an American mathematician who lived in the 18th century. Banneker is known for his work on astronomy and surveying. He helped to design the city of Washington, D.C.

Chapter 4: Black mathematicians in the 19th and 20th centuries

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Black mathematicians continued to break barriers and make groundbreaking contributions to the field. One of the most famous mathematicians of this period was David Blackwell. He was an American mathematician who lived in the 20th century. Blackwell is known for his work on statistics and probability.

Another important Black mathematician of this period was Katherine Johnson. She was an American mathematician who lived in the 20th century. Johnson is known for her work on rocket science and space exploration. She helped to calculate the trajectory of the first American astronauts to land on the moon.

Chapter 5: Black mathematicians in the 21st century

In the 21st century, Black mathematicians continue to make significant contributions to the field. One of the most promising young mathematicians of today is Dr. Erica Graham. She is an American mathematician who specializes in algebraic geometry.

Dr. Graham is known for her work on the Hodge conjecture. This is one of the most important unsolved problems in mathematics. Dr. Graham's work has the potential to revolutionize the field of algebraic geometry.

: The Legacy of Black Mathematicians

Black mathematicians have made significant contributions to the field of mathematics throughout history. They have overcome adversity, broken barriers, and made groundbreaking discoveries. Their stories are an inspiration to us all.

Black Mathematicians and the Paths to Excellence is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of mathematics, diversity and inclusion in STEM, or the stories of inspiring individuals.

Beyond Banneker: Black Mathematicians and the Paths to Excellence

by Erica N. Walker

5 out of 5