Back to Benjamin Banneker
The Riddle of Banneker's Name
Where did Benjamin Banneker's ancestors come from? His grandfather’s last name "Bannaka" may give us a clue. Above are maps showing the routes that enslaved peoples traveled from their home countries to the New World. We know Bannaka’s ship arrived around 1690 (in the 17th century). Below are some names that are commonly found in these countries. Using the date, map, and name information, click on the row from where you think Banneker's name might have originated.
Name
Nation of Origin
Meaning
