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Nanny of the Maroons: Jamaica's Heroine

Nanny of The Maroons When we think about the people who fought for freedom and justice, we often remember well-known figures like Harriet Tubman or Nelson Mandela. But there is one incredible woman from Jamaica whose courage and determination helped shape the path to freedom for many people—her name was Nanny of the Maroons also known as Queen Nanny and affectionately as Grandy Nanny. You might wonder, who was Nanny of the Maroons, and how did she contribute to the end of slavery? Let’s take a journey into history to learn about this amazing woman and how her actions impacted the lives of many. Who Was Nanny of the Maroons? Not much has been documented/uncovered about Nanny's pre-slavery origins. Nevertheless, what is known and documented is that Nanny of the Maroons was a strong and fearless leader who lived in Jamaica in the 17th and 18th centuries. According to oral history, she was born in West Africa (present day Ghana) amongst the Asante people, but was captured and sold into...

Lewis Latimer: Inventor, Engineer, Author

 

Photo of Lewis Latimer, Inventor & a true renaissance man


Lewis Howard Latimer was an American inventor, draftsman, and engineer. He was born on September 4, 1848, in Chelsea, Massachusetts, and died on December 11, 1928, in Flushing, New York.

Latimer is best known for his contributions to the development of the electric light bulb. He worked for the inventor Alexander Graham Bell and helped draft the patent for the telephone. Later, Latimer went to work for the Edison Electric Light Company and was instrumental in developing the electric light bulb by creating a longer-lasting filament.

In addition to his work with the electric light bulb, Latimer also patented several other inventions, including an improved system of ventilation for railway cars, a device for cleaning and renewing carbon filaments in incandescent lamps, and a method of making carbons for use in electric lamps.

Latimer was one of the few African Americans working in a field dominated by white men at the time. Despite facing racial discrimination, he was recognized for his technical skills and creativity, and he went on to have a successful career in the field of electrical engineering.

Today, Latimer is remembered as one of the pioneers of the electrical industry and a trailblazer for African Americans in STEM fields. His legacy continues to inspire future generations to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

Learning Opportunities:

1. Read a kids book about Lewis Latimer
2. Watch a brief documentary on Lewis Latimer
3. Visit the Lewis Latimer House in person or virtually.
4. Create a 'Family Tree' or diagram showing the history of 'light'...from natural to harnessed or try one of these projects
5. Share the new found knowledge with anyone who may not know. #BlackHistory

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