The Riddle of Banneker's Name

Previous Next

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.

Not Quite

Try Again

We know Bannaka’s ship arrived around 1690 (in the 17th century). Where does the map show the routes that enslaved peoples traveled from their home countries to the New World?

Congrats! You Did It!

Close

Congrats! Dr. Eglash came to the same conclusion. He even found a restaurant in the capital city of Senegal named “Banekhe” (pronounced Bah-na-kee).

You will need to share what you have found with the other teams. Good researchers always cross-check their data with other researchers!