Historical Info about Jefferson
What was Jefferson’s favorite food?
mac & cheese
How many years before Banneker wrote this letter did Jefferson write his book?
7 years
Why does Banneker use the quote “put your souls in their souls stead”?
Appeal to Jefferson’s emotions and get him to empathize with the enslaved African Americans.
What did Banneker invent?
First wooden clock
Who's the primary audience?
Thomas Jefferson
About how many people did Jefferson enslave throughout his life.
over 600 people
What was prevalent in the late 18th century?
slavery
How does Banneker appeal to Jeffersons principles?
Banneker appealed to Jefferson's Christian values to urge him to consider that all humans share a common creator and must therefore be treated the same.
What did Banneker do for a living?
farmer, scientist, astronomer, and author.
What is Banneker‘s persona?
humble, educated, respectful, and firm
What is Jeffersons home state?
Virgina
when did Banneker write this letter.
1791
What well known document did Jefferson write that Banneker used in his letter to Jefferson?
declaration of independence
Banneker helped survey land for which city?
Washington D.C.
What is the exigence?
Bill of Rights passed (all slave owners talking about their rights; ironic)
What political party is Jefferson a part of?
democratic-republicans
What was the main issue discussed in Jeffersons book?
racial prejudices (blacks were inferior).
What about Jefferson did Banneker call him out for using a euphemism?
being a slave holder
Who were Banneker parents?
Former slaves
What is the message?
All people of all races are created equal; therefore, Jefferson needs to open his heart and end his prejudice against the slaves.
What was Jefferson’s position when this letter was written?
secretary of state
What was this letter a response to?
Jefferson book “Notes on the state of Virginia“.
How does Banneker use of emotional and logical appeal change throughout the piece.
Starts very logical then shifts to emotional appeal.
What trait of Banneker‘s contradicts what Jefferson wrote about black people.
his intelligence
What is the purpose?
To get Thomas Jefferson to reconsider his position on race and the intellectual abilities of black people.