American Historical Figures Quiz

Benjamin Banneker

• Born free in Maryland
• Self-taught scholar in mathematics, astronomy and surveying
• Created one of America's first almanacs, with weather predictions, eclipses and tide tables
• Helped survey the land that would become Washington, D.C.
• Wrote a letter to Thomas Jefferson advocating for the rights and equality of African Americans

Harriet Tubman

• Born into slavery, escaped to freedom
• Became a leading abolitionist, best known for her work with the Underground Railroad
• Helped approximately 70 enslaved people escape to freedom in the North during 13 missions
• During the Civil War, she worked as a nurse, cook and spy for the Union Army
• Advocated for women's right to vote

Thomas Paine

• English-born political activist and philosopher
• Played a crucial role in the American Revolution
• His writings inspired colonists to seek independence from British rule
• Published "Common Sense" in 1776 arguing for independence and a democratic republic
• "The American Crisis" was a series of essays boosting morale for the American troops
• Proponent of individual rights and freedoms

Chief Joseph

• Leader of the Nez Perce tribe in the Pacific Northwest
• Known for his eloquent speeches and resistance to the U.S. government's attempts to relocate his people onto reservations
• Led his people on a remarkable retreat across several states, demonstrating courage and leadership
• His speeches highlighted the injustices faced by Native Americans and called for their rights and dignity

Sojourner Truth

• African American abolitionist and women's right's activist
• Born into slavery in New York
• Escaped slavery, became a powerful speaker advocating for equality
• Delivered "Ain't I a Woman?" speech at the Women's Rights Convention in 1851, advocating for equal rights of all women, emphasizing the intersection of race and gender
• Worked tirelessly to end slavery and improve the life of African Americans
• Traveled across the country speaking about the rights of women.